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The accessory reproductive structure in the simultaneous hermaphrodite Diplectrum bivittatum
Author(s) -
Touart L. W.,
Bortone S. A.
Publication year - 1980
Publication title -
journal of fish biology
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.672
H-Index - 115
eISSN - 1095-8649
pISSN - 0022-1112
DOI - 10.1111/j.1095-8649.1980.tb03717.x
Subject(s) - biology , hermaphrodite , gonad , sinus (botany) , anatomy , morphology (biology) , pillar , reproductive system , zoology , genus , structural engineering , engineering
The general gonad morphology in the simultaneous hermaphrodite, Diplectrum bivittatum from the Gulf of Mexico, agrees with previously published accounts on the gonad morphology of other Diplectrum spp. In D. bivittatum there is a well developed accessory reproductive structure (ARS) which consists of a post‐ovarian sinus and numerous well developed villi which project into the sinus from the sinus wall. The ARS varies seasonally: the post‐ovarian sinus is reduced in February and enlarged during June, September and October when the species is reproductively active. The villi are better developed in September specimens. Two pillar‐like structures within the ARS are described for the first time. Their columnar and smooth muscle cell composition suggests several possible reproductive functions.