Reproductive system of young male imagoes and kings of Termes saltans (Isoptera, Termitidae).

摘要

The male reproductive system of young imagoes and kings of the neotropical species Termes saltans Wasmann, was described and comparatively analysed in order to determinate the structure of the system in both groups of males and the modifications suffered by the kings during their imaginal lives. The specimens were dissected under stereomicroscope. The reproductive system was isolated, measured, described and drawn with camera lucida. Results showed that the width of the abdomen was significantly different between imagoes and kings (t = -14.52; P = 0.0000); on the other hand, the total body-length and length of the abdomen were similar. Both in young imagoes and kings, the reproductive system corresponded to the general organization of insects, butthere was not a well constituted penis or accessory glands. Each testis had 6-10 testicular lobes. The most remarkable modification in kings was the increase of the testicular volume, that was 61.78 times larger than in young imagoes. Vasa deferentia, seminal vesicles and ejaculatory duct also showed higher values on kings. A change in the gut content, soil in imagoes and a colorless liquid in kings, was observed.