Ultrastructure of the spermathecal gland of Melipona bicolor lep. (Hymenoptera, Apinae, Meliponini)

ABSTRACT

The ultrastructural features of the spermathecal gland of Melipona bicolor, a stingless bee, are described. The gland in this species is very small, but the organization of the cells and theis ultrastructural features are very similar to those of Apis mellifera. The gland consist of two short tubular diverticuli connected directly to the spermatheca. The diverticuli are constituted by class III glandular cells. The only difference between the glands of virgin and mated queens is the presence of glycogen deposits in virgins, probably remmants of energetic reserves frequently present in young tissues. The physiological role of the secretion of this organ is not known since its lipid morphological aspect, does not seem support a nutritional function to the sperm cells.