Functional anatomy of the reproductive system (Chapter 15).

LÓPEZ GRECO, LS

Vol I: The Functional Morphology & Diversity of the Crustaceans

Oxford University Press

Año: 2012; p. 413 - 450

Abstract Th is chapter briefl y describes the diversity in the functional morphology of the crustacean reproductive organs from both macroscopic and microscopic approaches. Th e anatomical design of the female reproductive system involving the diff erent positions of germaria and growing oocytes and types of accessory cells is compared within crustaceans and partially with other Arthropoda. Male reproductive systems also show diversity in testes design and in the proposed roles of Sertoli-like cells. Th e genital ducts in both females and males show large morphological variability related to their functions in gamete transport, sperm maturation, sperm storage, and spermatozoa packaging. Th is anatomical diversity is proposed to be partially driven by the environment since some similar morphofunctional patt erns are found in similar habitats. Specially, diff erent patt erns of sperm storage are discussed within the framework of sperm competition. Reproductive morphology in hermaphroditic and intersex species is also included and compared, highlighting the signifi cance of these reproductive models to understand sexual diff erentiation mechanisms in crustaceans. Finally, morphological comparative studies are proposed to address questions related to the evolution of general and particular designs and primitive and advanced patt erns, as well as the study of the embryological development of the reproductive system as a key to understand the diff erences between and within taxa and neurohormonal pathways of sexual diff erentiation and endocrine disruption.