Spermatophore Formation in Desmognathus ochrophaeus (Amphibia: Plethodontidae)

Abstract

The relationship between cloacal gland secretion and spermatophore structure is described for Desmognathus ochrophaeus. The spermatophore cap consists of spermatozoa and of granular and globular secretions. Upon initial formation of the cap, these materials are mixed. After being held in the female cloaca, the cap is organized so that the granular and globular material are separate. The portion of the cap deepest in the female cloaca consists of a mass of granular material that fills the inner circumference of the cloacal orifice. The globular material is in layers superficial to the granular material and covers the cloacal orifice. Spermatozoa are scattered throughout the granular material but are most numerous near the globular layers. The granular material of the cap is largely secreted by Kingsbury's glands and anterior ventral glands, although some material is added by dorsal and caudal pelvic glands. This material stains positively for acid mucopolysaccharides. The globular material is secreted by pelvic glands and is in two layers. The inner layer, which stains positively for lipids and proteins, is secreted by dorsolateral pelvic glands. The outer layer, which stains positively for proteins, is secreted by dorsal and caudal pelvic glands. The base of the spermatophore stains positively for acid mucopolysaccharides and is secreted by posterior ventral glands. Depletion of glandular products after spermatophore deposition is documented histologically. Spermatophore production and sperm transfer are discussed in the context of courtship behavior in natural situations.