Surface morphology of the spermatheca of Dolycoris baccarum (Linnaeus, 1758) (Heteroptera: Pentatomidae)

Abstract

The morphology of the spermatheca of Dolycoris baccarum (Linnaeus, 1758) (Heteroptera: Pentatomidae) was examined using both light microscopy and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The spermatheca of D. baccarum is characterized by the presence of a spherical spermathecal bulb that appears sclerotized and is covered with multiple pores. The spermathecal duct, pumping region with distal and proximal flanges and dilation of spermathecal duct are illustrated. The pumping region contains both distal and proximal flanges. The spermathecal dilation is striated and the walls are muscular. The proximal area of the spermathecal duct is fairly long relative to the distal area and is close to the opening of the vagina. Two alternately placed V-shaped sclerites and two ring sclerites occur in the genital chamber.