The ultrastructure of spermatozoa of two species of Aegla (A. parana and A. quilombola) (Crustacea, Decapoda) endemic to Brazil.

The previously published ultrastructure of Aegla spermatozoa contributed to the phylogenetics of this unique taxon. The present study describes the spermatozoa of two additional aeglids, Aegla parana and A. quilombola. The spermatozoa consist of two hemispheres of the approximate same size and a bilayered acrosomal vesicle; both characteristics of the genus Aegla. The similarity of spermatozoa ultrastructure observed between A. parana and A. quilombola and the endemic Australian anomuran, Lomis hirta (Lomidae) reflects a sister group relationship, even though both are from different regions of the world and different environments today. Aeglid spermatozoa share the same organization with Lomis including the two equal size hemispheres separated by a membrane also two layers in the acrosomal vesicle with the external layer being surrounded by another membrane. The number of spermatozoa microtubular arms is unclear in Aegla, however, they are present in both the nucleus and cytoplasm. This observation does not agree with the presence of spermatozoa arms only in the nucleus, as an exclusive character for Aegla, as proposed previously. The presence of lipid-droplets and peroxisomes was observed only in the spermatozoa of A. quilombola. The greatly reduced number of spermatozoa observed in all specimens analyzed raises concerns about the conservation of several threatened species. In addition, the absence of any spermatophores seems to be a characteristic of the Aeglidae to date.

The Functional Morphology of the Bursa Copulatrix of a Butterfly That Does Not Digest Spermatophores (Leptophobiaaripa, Pieridae).

The bursa copulatrix of female Lepidoptera is a complex organ where crucial male-female reproductive interactions occur during and after copulation. The bursa copulatrix receives, stores, and digests the spermatophore and other substances transferred by the male during copulation, and is involved in changes in female receptivity, ovogenesis, and oviposition. Although females of the butterfly Leptophobia aripa do not digest the spermatophore, they possess a prominent signum. Since, in general, the function of the signum is considered to be the piercing or tearing of the spermatophore to initiate its digestion, its presence in L. aripa poses a conundrum. We undertook a microscopic study of the different components of the bursa copulatrix (ductus bursae and corpus bursae) and found structural differences that we interpreted in functional terms. We provide a detailed description of the signum and present experimental data regarding its effect on the spermatophore. Our observations led us to propose a novel hypothesis regarding the function of the signum.

The Effect of Resistance to Bt Corn on the Reproductive Output of Spodoptera frugiperda (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae).

The fall armyworm (FAW) Spodoptera frugiperda is the most significant lepidopteran corn pest in South American countries. Transgenic Bt corn, producing the Cry1Fa toxins, has been used to control this pest, but there is clear evidence that some FAW populations have developed resistance. To determine if there are costs associated with resistance, we compared the mass of adults, the duration of mating, and the mass of the first spermatophore produced, as well as the lifetime fecundity and fertility of once-mated susceptible (SS) and resistant (RR) females. Adult mass was affected by both sex and strain, with SS females being significantly larger than RR ones, while the inverse was true for males. RR pairs took significantly longer to mate than SS pairs, yet the mass of spermatophores produced by RR males was significantly less than those of SS males. The total number of eggs laid did not differ but the fertility of eggs from once-mated RR pairs was significantly lower than that of SS pairs. Our data provided clear evidence that the development of Bt resistance affected the reproductive capacity of resistant FAW.

The complex communication signals in the mating behavior of the tropical cricket Cranistus colliurides Stål, 1861 (Orthoptera: Grylloidea; Trigonidiidae: Phylloscyrtini).

Cricket mating behavior reflects different strategies developed by sexual selection throughout evolutionary time. To our knowledge, only one species of the Neotropical cricket Trigonidiinae had its mating behavior studied so far. Here we expand this knowledge by describing the mating behavior of Cranistus colliurides Stål, 1861, a cricket commonly found in bushes and grasses along open fields or the forest edge. Adult crickets were collected in the municipality of Capão do Leão, State of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. Trials were carried out in laboratory to characterize the mating sequence. We quantified elapsed time of each behavioral sequence and discussed its implications in the observed mating behavior. The males of C. colliurides attracted females by means of a continuous trill, and receptive female triggers the beginning of the courtship through antennation. During courtship, copulation and post-copulatory actions, males showed a complex communication system based on information send to female by substrate vibration and an elaborated repertoire composed by calling, courtship and post-copulatory song. The mating behavior here described reveals divergence between related species hitherto studied which give us clues to understand how the sexual selection shaped the complex behaviors exhibited by Trigonidiinae crickets presently.

Biotic potential and reproductive parameters of Spodoptera cosmioides (Walker) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) in the laboratory / Potencial biótico e parâmetros reprodutivos de Spodoptera cosmioides (Walker) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) em laboratório

Abstract In this study we evaluate the biotic potential and reproductive parameters of Spodoptera cosmioides (Walker, 1858) under controlled conditions (25 ± 1 °C, 70 ± 10% RH and 14 hour photophase). Females, on average, (14.433 days) did not live significantly longer than their male counterparts (13.100 days). The mean durations of the pre-oviposition, oviposition and post-oviposition periods were 2.767, 10.600 and 1.067 days, respectively. The mean fecundity of females was 5,073.533 eggs and the mean fertility was 5,021.027 larvae. On average, females copulated 1.167 times. Fecundity was positively correlated with the number of copulations (r = 0.583, P <0.001). The number of copulations, however, was negatively correlated whit the duration of the pre-oviposition (r = -0.560, P = 0.007) and oviposition (r = -0.479, P = 0.048) periods, and overall longevity (r = -0.512, P = 0.031). The biotic potential was estimated at 6.547 x 1021 individuals/female/year. The net reproductive rate (Ro) was 2,193.722 times per generation and the mean generation time (T) was 46.407 days. The intrinsic rate of increase (rm) was 0.166, with a finite rate of increase (λ) of 1.180, per week.

Resumo Neste estudo avaliamos o potencial biótico e parâmetros reprodutivos de Spodoptera cosmioides (Walker, 1858) em condições controladas (25 ± 1 °C, 70 ± 10% UR e 14 horas de fotofase). Em média, as fêmeas (14,433 dias) não viveram significativamente mais do que os machos (13,100 dias). A duração média dos períodos de pre-oviposição, oviposição e pós-oviposição foram 2,767; 10,600 e 1,067 dias, respectivamente. A fecundidade média das fêmeas foi de 5.073,533 ovos e a fertilidade média foi de 5.021,027 larvas. Em média, as fêmeas copularam 1,167 vezes. A fecundidade correlacionou-se positivamente com o número de cópulas (r = 0,583; P <0,001). Entretanto, o número de cópulas correlacionou-se negativamente com a duração dos períodos de pré-oviposição (r = -0,560; P = 0,007), oviposição (r = -0,479; P = 0;048) e a longevidade (r = -0,512; P = 0,031). O potencial biótico foi estimado em 6,547 x 1021 indivíduos/fêmea/ano. A taxa líquida de reprodução (Ro) foi de 2.193,722 vezes por geração e o tempo médio de cada geração (T) foi de 46,407 dias. A taxa intrínseca de crescimento (rm) foi 0,166, com uma taxa finita de aumento (λ) de 1,180, por semana.

Biotic potential and reproductive parameters of Spodoptera cosmioides (Walker) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) in the laboratory / Potencial biótico e parâmetros reprodutivos de Spodoptera cosmioides (Walker) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) em laboratório

In this study we evaluate the biotic potential and reproductive parameters of Spodoptera cosmioides (Walker, 1858) under controlled conditions (25 ± 1 °C, 70 ± 10% RH and 14 hour photophase). Females, on average, (14.433 days) did not live significantly longer than their male counterparts (13.100 days). The mean durations of the pre-oviposition, oviposition and post-oviposition periods were 2.767, 10.600 and 1.067 days, respectively. The mean fecundity of females was 5,073.533 eggs and the mean fertility was 5,021.027 larvae. On average, females copulated 1.167 times. Fecundity was positively correlated with the number of copulations (r = 0.583, P 0.001). The number of copulations, however, was negatively correlated whit the duration of the pre-oviposition (r = -0.560, P = 0.007) and oviposition (r = -0.479, P = 0.048) periods, and overall longevity (r = -0.512, P = 0.031). The biotic potential was estimated at 6.547 x 1021 individuals/female/year. The net reproductive rate (Ro) was 2,193.722 times per generation and the mean generation time (T) was 46.407 days. The intrinsic rate of increase (rm) was 0.166, with a finite rate of increase () of 1.180, per week.(AU)

Neste estudo avaliamos o potencial biótico e parâmetros reprodutivos de Spodoptera cosmioides (Walker, 1858) em condições controladas (25 ± 1 °C, 70 ± 10% UR e 14 horas de fotofase). Em média, as fêmeas (14,433 dias) não viveram significativamente mais do que os machos (13,100 dias). A duração média dos períodos de pre-oviposição, oviposição e pós-oviposição foram 2,767; 10,600 e 1,067 dias, respectivamente. A fecundidade média das fêmeas foi de 5.073,533 ovos e a fertilidade média foi de 5.021,027 larvas. Em média, as fêmeas copularam 1,167 vezes. A fecundidade correlacionou-se positivamente com o número de cópulas (r = 0,583; P 0,001). Entretanto, o número de cópulas correlacionou-se negativamente com a duração dos períodos de pré-oviposição (r = -0,560; P = 0,007), oviposição (r = -0,479; P = 0;048) e a longevidade (r = -0,512; P = 0,031). O potencial biótico foi estimado em 6,547 x 1021 indivíduos/fêmea/ano. A taxa líquida de reprodução (Ro) foi de 2.193,722 vezes por geração e o tempo médio de cada geração (T) foi de 46,407 dias. A taxa intrínseca de crescimento (rm) foi 0,166, com uma taxa finita de aumento () de 1,180, por semana.(AU)

Gonadal histology of box jellyfish (Cnidaria: Cubozoa) reveals variation between internal fertilizing species Alatina alata (Alatinidae) and Copula sivickisi (Tripedaliidae).

Cubozoans (box jellyfish) are gonochoristic cnidarians with distinct reproductive strategies. This comparative histological study examines the gonad organization of Alatina alata and Copula sivickisi, two box jellyfish species that exhibit different modes of internal fertilization. A. alata reproduces via spermcasting aggregations while C. sivickisi reproduces via copulation; in both cases, internal fertilization occurs in the gastrovascular cavity. Herein, we provide the first histological description of subgastric sacs-structures unique to C. sivickisi. Although previously thought to function as sperm storage sacs, our findings reveal that subgastric sacs are nematocyst nests lacking sperm entirely. Conversely, we discovered that velarial spots in C. sivickisi females correspond to actual sperm storage structures. Histological examination of cubozoan sperm packages revealed that while sperm packages from both species have motile flagella, A. alata males produce nonencapsulated sperm bundles (i.e., "spermatozeugmata"), and C. sivickisi males produce encapsulated packages (i.e., "spermatophores"). Our findings corroborate the presence of several types of nematocysts in C. sivickisi embryo strands and spermatophores, and indicate their provenance to be both female and male gonads respectively, as well as subgastric sacs (i.e., nematocyst nests). In contrast to our findings of velarial spots as sperm storages structures in C. sivickisi females, and of nematocysts in the gonads of both sexes, we report that A. alata medusae lack both sperm storage structures and gonadal nematocysts. Finally, we discuss our findings on reproductive morphology of C. sivickisi and A. alata in light of the respective reproductive behavior of these two cubozoan species.

Biotic potential and reproductive parameters of Spodoptera cosmioides (Walker) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) in the laboratory

Abstract In this study we evaluate the biotic potential and reproductive parameters of Spodoptera cosmioides (Walker, 1858) under controlled conditions (25 ± 1 °C, 70 ± 10% RH and 14 hour photophase). Females, on average, (14.433 days) did not live significantly longer than their male counterparts (13.100 days). The mean durations of the pre-oviposition, oviposition and post-oviposition periods were 2.767, 10.600 and 1.067 days, respectively. The mean fecundity of females was 5,073.533 eggs and the mean fertility was 5,021.027 larvae. On average, females copulated 1.167 times. Fecundity was positively correlated with the number of copulations (r = 0.583, P 0.001). The number of copulations, however, was negatively correlated whit the duration of the pre-oviposition (r = -0.560, P = 0.007) and oviposition (r = -0.479, P = 0.048) periods, and overall longevity (r = -0.512, P = 0.031). The biotic potential was estimated at 6.547 x 1021 individuals/female/year. The net reproductive rate (Ro) was 2,193.722 times per generation and the mean generation time (T) was 46.407 days. The intrinsic rate of increase (rm) was 0.166, with a finite rate of increase () of 1.180, per week.

Resumo Neste estudo avaliamos o potencial biótico e parâmetros reprodutivos de Spodoptera cosmioides (Walker, 1858) em condições controladas (25 ± 1 °C, 70 ± 10% UR e 14 horas de fotofase). Em média, as fêmeas (14,433 dias) não viveram significativamente mais do que os machos (13,100 dias). A duração média dos períodos de pre-oviposição, oviposição e pós-oviposição foram 2,767; 10,600 e 1,067 dias, respectivamente. A fecundidade média das fêmeas foi de 5.073,533 ovos e a fertilidade média foi de 5.021,027 larvas. Em média, as fêmeas copularam 1,167 vezes. A fecundidade correlacionou-se positivamente com o número de cópulas (r = 0,583; P 0,001). Entretanto, o número de cópulas correlacionou-se negativamente com a duração dos períodos de pré-oviposição (r = -0,560; P = 0,007), oviposição (r = -0,479; P = 0;048) e a longevidade (r = -0,512; P = 0,031). O potencial biótico foi estimado em 6,547 x 1021 indivíduos/fêmea/ano. A taxa líquida de reprodução (Ro) foi de 2.193,722 vezes por geração e o tempo médio de cada geração (T) foi de 46,407 dias. A taxa intrínseca de crescimento (rm) foi 0,166, com uma taxa finita de aumento () de 1,180, por semana.

Ultrastructure of spermatozoa of spider crabs, family Mithracidae (Crustacea, Decapoda, Brachyura): Integrative analyses based on morphological and molecular data.

Recent studies based on morphological and molecular data provide a new perspective concerning taxonomic aspects of the brachyuran family Mithracidae. These studies proposed a series of nominal changes and indicated that the family is actually represented by a different number and representatives of genera than previously thought. Here, we provide a comparative description of the ultrastructure of spermatozoa and spermatophores of some species of Mithracidae in a phylogenetic context. The ultrastructure of the spermatozoa and spermatophore was observed by scanning and transmission electron microscopy. The most informative morphological characters analysed were thickness of the operculum, shape of the perforatorial chamber and shape and thickness of the inner acrosomal zone. As a framework, we used a topology based on a phylogenetic analysis using mitochondrial data obtained here and from previous studies. Our results indicate that closely related species share a series of morphological characteristics of the spermatozoa. A thick operculum, for example, is a feature observed in species of the genera Amphithrax, Teleophrys, and Omalacantha in contrast to the slender operculum observed in Mithraculus and Mithrax. Amphithrax and Teleophrys have a rhomboid perforatorial chamber, while Mithraculus, Mithrax, and Omalacantha show a wider, deltoid morphology. Furthermore, our results are in agreement with recently proposed taxonomic changes including the separation of the genera Mithrax (previously Damithrax), Amphithrax (previously Mithrax) and Mithraculus, and the synonymy of Mithrax caribbaeus with Mithrax hispidus. Overall, the spermiotaxonomy of these species of Mithracidae represent a novel set of data that corroborates the most recent taxonomic revision of the family and can be used in future taxonomic and phylogenetic studies within this family.

Dimorphic ejaculates and sperm release strategies associated with alternative mating behaviors in the squid.

Sperm competition is a powerful postcopulatory selective force influencing male adaptations associated with increasing fertilization success, and it is usually related to the evolution of different strategies of ejaculate expenditure between individuals. Ejaculates may also be influenced by additional selective pressures associated with sperm competition, such as timing between insemination and fertilization, female reproductive tract morphology, and fertilization environment. Also, males that adopt alternative mating tactics may face distinct sperm competition pressures, which may lead to the evolution of intraspecific diversity in ejaculates. In loliginid squids, males with alternative reproductive tactics (sneakers and consorts) differ not only in mating behavior, but also transfer spermatophores into two distinct sites within the female. Here, we compared structure and functioning of spermatophores between sneakers and consorts in the squid Doryteuthis plei applying microscopy techniques and in vitro experiments. Sneakers and consorts exhibit differences in spermatophore structure that lead to distinct spermatophoric reactions and spermatangium morphologies. Moreover, in sneakers, sperm release lasts longer and their sperm show an aggregative behavior not detected in consorts. Slow sperm release may be a strategy to guarantee longer sperm provision, given the wide interval between sneaker mating and egg release. For consorts, in turn, intense and quick sperm discharge may be advantageous, as timing between mating and egg-laying is relatively short. Within the complex squid mating system, factors such as (i) different fertilization sites and (ii) interval between mating and egg release may also influence sperm competition, and ultimately shape the evolution of divergent ejaculates between dimorphic males.

Biotic potential and reproductive parameters of Spodoptera cosmioides (Walker) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) in the laboratory

Abstract In this study we evaluate the biotic potential and reproductive parameters of Spodoptera cosmioides (Walker, 1858) under controlled conditions (25 ± 1 °C, 70 ± 10% RH and 14 hour photophase). Females, on average, (14.433 days) did not live significantly longer than their male counterparts (13.100 days). The mean durations of the pre-oviposition, oviposition and post-oviposition periods were 2.767, 10.600 and 1.067 days, respectively. The mean fecundity of females was 5,073.533 eggs and the mean fertility was 5,021.027 larvae. On average, females copulated 1.167 times. Fecundity was positively correlated with the number of copulations (r = 0.583, P 0.001). The number of copulations, however, was negatively correlated whit the duration of the pre-oviposition (r = -0.560, P = 0.007) and oviposition (r = -0.479, P = 0.048) periods, and overall longevity (r = -0.512, P = 0.031). The biotic potential was estimated at 6.547 x 1021 individuals/female/year. The net reproductive rate (Ro) was 2,193.722 times per generation and the mean generation time (T) was 46.407 days. The intrinsic rate of increase (rm) was 0.166, with a finite rate of increase () of 1.180, per week.

Resumo Neste estudo avaliamos o potencial biótico e parâmetros reprodutivos de Spodoptera cosmioides (Walker, 1858) em condições controladas (25 ± 1 °C, 70 ± 10% UR e 14 horas de fotofase). Em média, as fêmeas (14,433 dias) não viveram significativamente mais do que os machos (13,100 dias). A duração média dos períodos de pre-oviposição, oviposição e pós-oviposição foram 2,767; 10,600 e 1,067 dias, respectivamente. A fecundidade média das fêmeas foi de 5.073,533 ovos e a fertilidade média foi de 5.021,027 larvas. Em média, as fêmeas copularam 1,167 vezes. A fecundidade correlacionou-se positivamente com o número de cópulas (r = 0,583; P 0,001). Entretanto, o número de cópulas correlacionou-se negativamente com a duração dos períodos de pré-oviposição (r = -0,560; P = 0,007), oviposição (r = -0,479; P = 0;048) e a longevidade (r = -0,512; P = 0,031). O potencial biótico foi estimado em 6,547 x 1021 indivíduos/fêmea/ano. A taxa líquida de reprodução (Ro) foi de 2.193,722 vezes por geração e o tempo médio de cada geração (T) foi de 46,407 dias. A taxa intrínseca de crescimento (rm) foi 0,166, com uma taxa finita de aumento () de 1,180, por semana.

Reproductive potential of Spodoptera eridania (Stoll) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) in the laboratory: effect of multiple couples and the size

Abstract This study aimed to evaluate the effect of keeping three couples in the same cage, and the size of adults emerged from small, medium-sized and large pupae (278.67 mg; 333.20 mg and 381.58 mg, respectively), on the reproductive potential of S. eridania (Stoll, 1782) adults, under controlled conditions (25 ± 1 °C, 70% RH and 14 hour photophase). We evaluated the survival, number of copulations, fecundity and fertility of the adult females. The survival of females from these different pupal sizes did not differ statistically, but the survival of males from large pupae was statistically shorter than from small pupae. Fecundity differed significantly and correlated positively with size. The number of effective copulations (espematophores) and fertility did not vary significantly with pupal size. Our results emphasize the importance of indicating the number of copulations and the size of the insects when reproductive parameters are compared.(AU)

Resumo Este estudo objetivou avaliar o efeito de confinar três casais em cada gaiola e o tamanho de adultos emergidos de pupas pequenas, medias e grandes (278,67 mg, 333,20 mg e 381,58 mg, respectivamente), sobre o potencial reprodutivo de S. eridania (Stoll, 1782), em condições controladas (25 ± 1 °C, 70% UR e 14 horas de fotofase). Avaliou-se a sobrevivência, o número de cópulas, fecundidade e fertilidade dos adultos. A sobrevivência não diferiu significativamente entre fêmeas provenientes de pupas de diferentes tamanhos, mas os machos oriundos de pupas grandes tiveram sobrevivência significativamente menor que os demais tamanhos. A fecundidade diferiu significativamente e correlacionou-se positivamente com o tamanho. O número de cópulas (espematóforos) e a fertilidade não variaram em função do peso pupal. Os resultados enfatizam a importância de indicar o número de cópulas e o tamanho dos insetos estudados para que comparações entre os parâmetros reprodutivos possam ser efetuadas.(AU)

Reproductive potential of Spodoptera eridania (Stoll) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) in the laboratory: effect of multiple couples and the size / Potencial reprodutivo de Spodoptera eridania (Stoll) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) em laboratório: efeito de múltiplos casais e do tamanho

Abstract This study aimed to evaluate the effect of keeping three couples in the same cage, and the size of adults emerged from small, medium-sized and large pupae (278.67 mg; 333.20 mg and 381.58 mg, respectively), on the reproductive potential of S. eridania (Stoll, 1782) adults, under controlled conditions (25 ± 1 °C, 70% RH and 14 hour photophase). We evaluated the survival, number of copulations, fecundity and fertility of the adult females. The survival of females from these different pupal sizes did not differ statistically, but the survival of males from large pupae was statistically shorter than from small pupae. Fecundity differed significantly and correlated positively with size. The number of effective copulations (espematophores) and fertility did not vary significantly with pupal size. Our results emphasize the importance of indicating the number of copulations and the size of the insects when reproductive parameters are compared.

Resumo Este estudo objetivou avaliar o efeito de confinar três casais em cada gaiola e o tamanho de adultos emergidos de pupas pequenas, medias e grandes (278,67 mg, 333,20 mg e 381,58 mg, respectivamente), sobre o potencial reprodutivo de S. eridania (Stoll, 1782), em condições controladas (25 ± 1 °C, 70% UR e 14 horas de fotofase). Avaliou-se a sobrevivência, o número de cópulas, fecundidade e fertilidade dos adultos. A sobrevivência não diferiu significativamente entre fêmeas provenientes de pupas de diferentes tamanhos, mas os machos oriundos de pupas grandes tiveram sobrevivência significativamente menor que os demais tamanhos. A fecundidade diferiu significativamente e correlacionou-se positivamente com o tamanho. O número de cópulas (espematóforos) e a fertilidade não variaram em função do peso pupal. Os resultados enfatizam a importância de indicar o número de cópulas e o tamanho dos insetos estudados para que comparações entre os parâmetros reprodutivos possam ser efetuadas.

Reproductive potential of Spodoptera eridania (Stoll) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) in the laboratory: effect of multiple couples and the size

Abstract This study aimed to evaluate the effect of keeping three couples in the same cage, and the size of adults emerged from small, medium-sized and large pupae (278.67 mg; 333.20 mg and 381.58 mg, respectively), on the reproductive potential of S. eridania (Stoll, 1782) adults, under controlled conditions (25 ± 1 °C, 70% RH and 14 hour photophase). We evaluated the survival, number of copulations, fecundity and fertility of the adult females. The survival of females from these different pupal sizes did not differ statistically, but the survival of males from large pupae was statistically shorter than from small pupae. Fecundity differed significantly and correlated positively with size. The number of effective copulations (espematophores) and fertility did not vary significantly with pupal size. Our results emphasize the importance of indicating the number of copulations and the size of the insects when reproductive parameters are compared.

Resumo Este estudo objetivou avaliar o efeito de confinar três casais em cada gaiola e o tamanho de adultos emergidos de pupas pequenas, medias e grandes (278,67 mg, 333,20 mg e 381,58 mg, respectivamente), sobre o potencial reprodutivo de S. eridania (Stoll, 1782), em condições controladas (25 ± 1 °C, 70% UR e 14 horas de fotofase). Avaliou-se a sobrevivência, o número de cópulas, fecundidade e fertilidade dos adultos. A sobrevivência não diferiu significativamente entre fêmeas provenientes de pupas de diferentes tamanhos, mas os machos oriundos de pupas grandes tiveram sobrevivência significativamente menor que os demais tamanhos. A fecundidade diferiu significativamente e correlacionou-se positivamente com o tamanho. O número de cópulas (espematóforos) e a fertilidade não variaram em função do peso pupal. Os resultados enfatizam a importância de indicar o número de cópulas e o tamanho dos insetos estudados para que comparações entre os parâmetros reprodutivos possam ser efetuadas.

Biotic potential and reproductive parameters of Spodoptera dolichos (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) in the laboratory

The biotic potential and reproductive parameters of Spodoptera dolichos (Fabricius, 1794) were evaluated under controlled conditions (25 ± 1°C, 70 ± 10% RH and 14 hour photophase). The longevity, pre-, post- and oviposition periods, fecundity, and fertility of 25 couples were evaluated. The longevity of females (12.9 days) was not significantly different than that of males (12.4 days). The mean durations of the pre-, post- and oviposition periods were 3.0, 0.4 and 10.4 days, respectively. The mean fecundity was 4,086.0 eggs per female and mean fertility was 3,557.8 larvae per female. On average, a female copulated 1.4 times. The biotic potential of S. dolichos was estimated at 7.138 x 1018 individuals/female/year. The net reproductive rate (Ro) was 1,711.98 times per generation and the mean generation time (T) was 56.19 days. The intrinsic rate of increase (rm) was 0.133, with a finite rate of increase (l) of 1.142 per day. These results are compared with other species from Spodoptera and their relevance for management strategies of S. dolichos.(AU)

Biotic potential and reproductive parameters of Spodoptera dolichos (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) in the laboratory

The biotic potential and reproductive parameters of Spodoptera dolichos (Fabricius, 1794) were evaluated under controlled conditions (25 ± 1°C, 70 ± 10% RH and 14 hour photophase). The longevity, pre-, post- and oviposition periods, fecundity, and fertility of 25 couples were evaluated. The longevity of females (12.9 days) was not significantly different than that of males (12.4 days). The mean durations of the pre-, post- and oviposition periods were 3.0, 0.4 and 10.4 days, respectively. The mean fecundity was 4,086.0 eggs per female and mean fertility was 3,557.8 larvae per female. On average, a female copulated 1.4 times. The biotic potential of S. dolichos was estimated at 7.138 x 1018 individuals/female/year. The net reproductive rate (Ro) was 1,711.98 times per generation and the mean generation time (T) was 56.19 days. The intrinsic rate of increase (rm) was 0.133, with a finite rate of increase (l) of 1.142 per day. These results are compared with other species from Spodoptera and their relevance for management strategies of S. dolichos.

Histology and ultrastructure of male reproductive system of the Indian Spiny lobster Panulirus homarus (Decapoda: Palinuridae) / Histología y ultraestructura del sistema reproductor masculino de la langosta espinosa de la India Panulirus homarus (Decapoda: Palinuridae)

The spiny lobster Panulirus homarus, distributed along the Southeast and Southwest coasts of India, is an important commercial species having mariculture potential. Despite its importance, the structural and ultrastructure features of male gonads from this species have received scarce attention. Hence this study was aimed to describe the male reproductive tract of the species, using standard histological and electron microscopy techniques. Gonads from 94 specimens of P. homarus ranging in carapace length 37mm-92mm from vizhinjam (Southwest coast of India.) were obtained and processed for the study (Histology-70 numbers & ultrastructure-24 numbers). The male reproductive system consists of paired testis and vas deferens located in the cephalothoracic region. Macroscopically, the reproductive tract was observed in lobsters >35mm carapace length. In immature testis, spermatogonia were seen which measured 6.9-13.8µm in diameter and in the mature testis primary (5.4-5.9µm) and secondary spermatocytes (2.8-3µm) and spermatids (2.2-2.4µm) were present. Each vas deferens consists of proximal and distal portions. The spermatophoric mass begins formation in the proximal vas deferens. In the distal vas deferens the spermatophoric mass containing the spermatozoa are arranged in packets towards the periphery by the gelatinous matrix produced by the typhlosole. Ultrastructurally, the spermatogonia have lamina, nucleus and mitochondria like bodies, the primary spermatocytes have nucleus, dense chromatin and vacuolated cytoplasm and the spermatids have mitochondria, endoplasmic reticulum and centrioles. The endoplasmic reticulum and the nuclear envelope in the spermatids form the acrosome. The radial arms with microtubules are formed in association with the dense endoplasmic reticulum, near the nucleus. The sperm has a spherical structure with the nucleus, lamellar region, spikes and acrosome. This is the first comprehensive report of the structure of the male gametes and spermatogenesis in P. homarus from Indian waters.Rev. Biol. Trop. 62 (2): 533-541. Epub 2014 June 01.

La langosta espinosa Panulirus homarus, distribuida a lo largo de las costas sudeste y sudoeste de la India, es una especie de importancia comercial con gran potencial para la mari-cultura. A pesar de su importancia, las características estructurales y ultraestructurales de las gónadas masculinas de esta especie han sido poco estudiadas. Debido a esto, el objetivo de este estudio fue describir el aparato reproductor masculino de dicha especie, utilizando técnicas convencionales de microscopía histológica y electrónica. Se procesaron 94 ejemplares de P. homarus de vizhinjam (costa suroeste de la India) (70 individuos para histología y 24 para ultraestructura), cuyos caparazones variaron de 37 mm a 92 mm de longitud. El sistema reproductor masculino de esta especie consistió en un par de testículos y un conducto deferente situados en la región céfalo-torácica. Macroscópicamente, el aparato reproductor se observó en langostas con una longitud de caparazón >35mm. En testículos inmaduros, la espermatogonia midió 6.9-13.8μm de diámetro y se encontró presente en los testículos maduros primarios (5.4-5.9μm), espermatocitos secundarios (2.8 a 3 μm) y espermátidas (2.2-2.4μm). Cada conducto deferente consistió de porciones proximales y distales. La formación de la masa espermatofórica comienza en los conductos deferentes proximales. En el conducto deferente distal espermatofórico, la masa que contiene los espermatozoides está dispuesta en paquetes hacia la periferia, en una matriz gelatinosa producida por el tiflosol. Ultraestructuralmente, las espermatogonias presentan una lámina, núcleo y mitocondrias, los espermatocitos primarios tienen núcleo, cromatina densa y citoplasma vacuolado, mientras que las espermátidas tienen mitocondrias, retículo endoplasmático y centríolos. En las espermátidas, el retículo endoplásmico y la envoltura nuclear forman el acrosoma. Los brazos radiales con microtúbulos se forman en asociación con el retículo endoplásmico denso, cerca del núcleo. El esperma presenta una estructura esférica con el núcleo, la región laminar, las espinas y el acrosoma. Este documento constituye el primer informe exhaustivo de la estructura de los gametos masculinos y espermatogénesis en P. homarus de la India.

Sexual coevolution of spermatophore envelopes and female genital traits in butterflies: Evidence of male coercion?

Signa are sclerotized structures located on the inner wall of the corpus bursa of female Lepidoptera whose main function is tearing open spermatophores. The sexually antagonistic coevolution (SAC) hypothesis proposes that the thickness of spermatophore envelopes has driven the evolution of the females signa; this idea is based in the fact that in many lepidopterans female sexual receptivity is at least partially controlled by the volume of ejaculate remaining in the corpus bursa. According to the SAC hypothesis, males evolved thick spermatophore envelopes to delay the post-mating recovery of female sexual receptivity thus reducing sperm competition; in response, females evolved signa for breaking spermatophore envelopes faster, gaining access to the resources contained in them and reducing their intermating intervals; the evolution of signa, in turn, favored the evolution of even thicker spermatophore envelopes, and so on. We tested two predictions of the SAC hypothesis with comparative data on the thickness of spermatophore envelopes of eleven species of Heliconiinae butterflies. The first prediction is that the spermatophore envelopes of polyandrous species with signa will be thicker than those of monandrous species without signa. In agreement with this prediction, we found that the spermatophore envelopes of a polyandrous Heliconius species with signa are thicker than those of two monandrous Heliconius species without signa. The second prediction is that in some species with signa males could enforce monandry in females by evolving "very thick" spermatophore envelopes, in these species we predict that their spermatophore envelopes will be thicker than those of their closer polyandrous relatives with signa. In agreement with this prediction, we found that in two out of three comparisons, spermatophore envelopes of monandrous species with signa have thicker spermatophore envelopes than their closer polyandrous relatives with signa. Thus, our results support the idea that selective pressures arising from sexually antagonistic interactions have been important in the evolution of spermatophore envelopes, female signa and female mating patterns.

Criopreservação do espermatóforo e da massa espermática do camarão branco Litopenaeus schmitti post-mortem / Post-mortem spermatophore and sperm cryopreservation of the white shrimp Litopenaeus schmitti

This study was carried out in two phases; the first to evaluate the viability of two cooling protocols (A and B) using glycerol (10%) as a cryoprotectant and the second, the efficiency of two cryoprotectants (10% glycerol and DMSO) and times (30, 60 and 90 days of storage in liquid nitrogen) for the cryopreservation of post-mortem sperm mass and spermatophores of the shrimp Litopenaeus schmitti. The protocol A presented a cooling rate of 0.5C min-1 until reaching -32ºC and protocol B, 20ºC min-1 until reach -120ºC, after which the samples were transferred to liquid nitrogen (N2L). The sperm viability was assessed by smearing the semen stained with eosin-nigrosin. The curve resulted in higher mean sperm survival was Protocol A (50.9%). Therefore, for the second experiment, the protocol A was used, however there was no difference between the cryoprotectants for sperm mass, although the influence on survival time. Difference was observed between the cryoprotectants and the influence of time on sperm survival of cryopreserved spermatophores. Glycerol 10% was more efficient for cryopreservation of spermatophore, but for the masses sperm, both can be used.(AU)

O presente trabalho foi realizado em duas etapas; a primeira para avaliar a eficiência de dois protocolos de resfriamento (A e B) utilizando glicerol (10%) como crioprotetor e, a segunda, a eficiência de dois crioprotetores (glicerol e dimetilsulfóxido - DMSO a 10%) e o tempo (30, 60 e 90 dias de estocagem em nitrogênio líquido) para a criopreservação da massa espermática e espermatóforo de camarões post mortem da espécie Litopenaeus schmitti. O protocolo A apresentou velocidade de resfriamento de 0,5ºC min-1 até alcançar -32ºC e o protocolo B, 20ºC min-1 até alcançar -120ºC, sendo os materiais posteriormente transferidos para o nitrogênio líquido (N2L). A viabilidade espermática foi avaliada por meio do esfregaço de sêmen corado com eosina-nigrosina. A curva que resultou na maior média de sobrevivência espermática foi a do protocolo A (50,9%). Portanto, para o segundo experimento foi utilizado o protocolo A; entretanto, neste não houve diferença entre os crioprotetores para a massa espermática, contudo, o tempo influenciou na sobrevivência. Foi observada diferença entre os crioprotetores e a influência do tempo na sobrevivência espermática dos espermatóforos criopreservados. O glicerol a 10% foi mais eficiente para a criopreservação dos espermatóforos, porém, para as massas espermáticas, ambos podem ser utilizados.(AU)

Criopreservação do espermatóforo e da massa espermática do camarão branco Litopenaeus schmitti post-mortem / Post-mortem spermatophore and sperm cryopreservation of the white shrimp Litopenaeus schmitti

This study was carried out in two phases; the first to evaluate the viability of two cooling protocols (A and B) using glycerol (10%) as a cryoprotectant and the second, the efficiency of two cryoprotectants (10% glycerol and DMSO) and times (30, 60 and 90 days of storage in liquid nitrogen) for the cryopreservation of post-mortem sperm mass and spermatophores of the shrimp Litopenaeus schmitti. The protocol A presented a cooling rate of 0.5C min-1 until reaching -32ºC and protocol B, 20ºC min-1 until reach -120ºC, after which the samples were transferred to liquid nitrogen (N2L). The sperm viability was assessed by smearing the semen stained with eosin-nigrosin. The curve resulted in higher mean sperm survival was Protocol A (50.9%). Therefore, for the second experiment, the protocol A was used, however there was no difference between the cryoprotectants for sperm mass, although the influence on survival time. Difference was observed between the cryoprotectants and the influence of time on sperm survival of cryopreserved spermatophores. Glycerol 10% was more efficient for cryopreservation of spermatophore, but for the masses sperm, both can be used.

O presente trabalho foi realizado em duas etapas; a primeira para avaliar a eficiência de dois protocolos de resfriamento (A e B) utilizando glicerol (10%) como crioprotetor e, a segunda, a eficiência de dois crioprotetores (glicerol e dimetilsulfóxido - DMSO a 10%) e o tempo (30, 60 e 90 dias de estocagem em nitrogênio líquido) para a criopreservação da massa espermática e espermatóforo de camarões post mortem da espécie Litopenaeus schmitti. O protocolo A apresentou velocidade de resfriamento de 0,5ºC min-1 até alcançar -32ºC e o protocolo B, 20ºC min-1 até alcançar -120ºC, sendo os materiais posteriormente transferidos para o nitrogênio líquido (N2L). A viabilidade espermática foi avaliada por meio do esfregaço de sêmen corado com eosina-nigrosina. A curva que resultou na maior média de sobrevivência espermática foi a do protocolo A (50,9%). Portanto, para o segundo experimento foi utilizado o protocolo A; entretanto, neste não houve diferença entre os crioprotetores para a massa espermática, contudo, o tempo influenciou na sobrevivência. Foi observada diferença entre os crioprotetores e a influência do tempo na sobrevivência espermática dos espermatóforos criopreservados. O glicerol a 10% foi mais eficiente para a criopreservação dos espermatóforos, porém, para as massas espermáticas, ambos podem ser utilizados.