Direct Spermatophore Transfer via Genital Coupling in a Jumping Bristletail (VIDEO)

Meijo University

Caption

This video shows the mating behavior of the jumping bristletail Petrobiellus akkesiensis. The male grasps the female’s ovipositor using a hook-shaped penis and specialized styli on the abdomen, allowing direct transfer of a spermatophore through genital coupling. This behavior represents the first documented case of direct spermatophore transfer in apterygote insects and provides key insight into the evolution of insect mating strategies.

Credit

Assistant Professor Shodo Mtow from Meijo University, Japan

Usage Restrictions

Credit must be given to the creator.

License

CC BY

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