The giant and complex genital plug of the asper group of Bothriurus (Scorpiones, Bothriuridae): morphology and comparison with other genital plugs in scorpions

MATTONI, C. I. & A. V. PERETTI

ZOOLOGISCHER ANZEIGER

URBAN AND FISCHER - ELSEVIER

Año: 2004 vol. 243 p. 75 - 84

0044-5231

The genital plugs of two species of the asper group of Bothriurus (Scorpiones: Bothriuridae) are described and compared with other genital plugs reported in the family Bothriuridae. In both species of the group, B. asper and Bothriurus sp., the genital plug is cone-shaped and formed by combination of the basal lobes of the hemispermatophore. Fusion is complete in B. asper and the surface of the plug has many microspines that anchor it to the female genital atrium. In Bothriurus sp., the basal lobes are partially fused, but free on the dorsal side, and the plug has a smooth surface with a dorsal curvature. Both types of genital plugs completely fill the genital atrium of inseminated females, pressing against the cuticular wall of the atrium. Given the large size and complex shape, the genital plug of the B. asper group is unique not only among Bothriuridae but also for the order Scorpiones. This new type of genital plug resembles the genital plugs of the scorpion families Vaejovidae and Urodacidae. A comparison among the four major types of genital plugs reported in Bothriurus species and some other bothriurids is provided.