Spermatodesmata of the Sawflies (Hymenoptera: Symphyta): Evidence for Multiple Increases in Sperm Bundle Size

Download
(PDF; 559 KB)
Cite
Feedback
  • Authors: Schiff, Nathan; Flemming, Anthony J.; Quicke, Donald L.J.
  • Publication Year: 2001
  • Publication Series: Miscellaneous Publication
  • Source: J. Hym. Res. Vol. 10(2), 2001, pp. 119-125

Abstract

We present the first survey of spermatodesmata (bundles of spermatozoa connected at the head by an extracellular 'gelatinous' matrix) across the sawfly superfamilies. Spermatodesmata occur in all examined taxa within the sawfly grade (Xyelidae-Orussidae inclusive), but are not found in the Apocrita. Using DAPI staining, the numbers of individual sperm per spermatodesm were calculated and the values obtained are mapped on to the current phylogenetic hypothesis. The plesiomorphic spermatodesm in the Hymenoptera, based on that observed in the putatively basal family Xyelidae, contains relatively few sperm, approximately 16. However, in the Tenthredinoidea and in the Siricidae, far larger numbers are found, reaching up to 256 in the Cimbicidae.

  • Citation: Schiff, Nathan; Flemming, Anthony J.; Quicke, Donald L.J. 2001. Spermatodesmata of the Sawflies (Hymenoptera: Symphyta): Evidence for Multiple Increases in Sperm Bundle Size. J. Hym. Res. Vol. 10(2), 2001, pp. 119-125
  • Posted Date: January 1, 2000
  • Modified Date: August 22, 2006

    • Print Publications Are No Longer Available

    In an ongoing effort to be fiscally responsible, the Southern Research Station (SRS) will no longer produce and distribute hard copies of our publications. Many SRS publications are available at cost via the Government Printing Office (GPO). Electronic versions of publications may be downloaded, printed, and distributed.

    Publication Notes

    • This article was written and prepared by U.S. Government employees on official time, and is therefore in the public domain.
    • Our online publications are scanned and captured using Adobe Acrobat. During the capture process some typographical errors may occur. Please contact the SRS webmaster if you notice any errors which make this publication unusable.
    • To view this article, download the latest version of Adobe Acrobat Reader.