Fundamentals of Entomology

ANATOMY: REPRODUCTIVE SYSTEM

REPRODUCTIVE SYSTEM

 
• It is important to note here that variation among insect reproductive systems is great. Closely related species are often isolated from one another via small variations in the morphology of reproductive organs that prohibit interspecies mating. However, a generalized system can be constructed that closely represents all sexually reproducing insects.
• Do not be alarmed if you are unable to locate the indicated structures on your dissected specimens. Be familiar with differences in male and female genitalia and be able to identify structures when given a diagram. Directions are provided if you wish to attempt seeing the reproductive system of your specimen.

The Female Reproductive System	The Male Reproductive System
Remove the digestive tract from your female specimen by cutting it with a scalpel at the posterior- and anterior-most regions. Place digestive tract to the side. If necessary, remove muscle tissue, as well, until the ovaries, lateral oviducts, median oviduct, seminal receptacle and vagina are visible. Compare your specimen with the figures below. Then observe classmates’ specimens.	Remove the digestive tract from your male specimen by cutting it with a scalpel at the posterior- and anterior-most regions. Place digestive tract to the side. If necessary, remove muscle tissue, as well, until the testes, vas deferens, seminal vesicle, accessory glands, and ejaculatory duct are visible. Compare your specimen with the figures below. Then observe classmates’ specimens

• In insects male and female sexes are mostly separate. Sexual dimorphism is common where the male differ from the female morphologically as in bees, mosquito and cockroach.
• The other types are:

  Gynandromorph: (Sexual mosaic) Abnormal individual with secondary sexual characters of both male and female. e.g. mutant Drosophila.
  Hermaphrodite: Male and female gonads are present in one organism. e.g. Cottony cushion scale.

Reproductive system