The copulatory complex of Hemianax ephippiger (Burmeister) (Aeshnidae: Anisoptera)

Abstract

Summary Like other Anisoptera Hemianax ephippiger (Burmeister) bears two sets of copulatory apparatuses. The first set which is primary in nature is located on the ventral surface of the ninth abdominal segment and consists of the vestigial penis, the gonocoxites, the supra-anal appendages, the infra-anal appendage. The supra-anal appendages are well developed, lanceolate with serrate margin and spinous apices. They are dorso-ventrally flattened and furnished with long hairs and black teeth-like tubercles (T). The secondary copulatory complex is lodged inside the membranous fossa located on the ventral surface of second and third abdominal segments. It consists of anterior lamina, the posterior lamina, the supporting framework, the hamules, the penis sheath, the penis vesicle and the penis. The anterior lamina is deeply cleft at the posterior margin to accommodate the ovipositor of the female during copulation. Both the portions of the supporting framework are well developed. The anterior portion is somewhat rectangular while the posterior portion is nearly U-shaped. The anterior hamules are well developed with truncated and hooked portions, while the posterior hamules are very much reduced. The penis sheath is forcepate with well developed rectangular flap which hangs over the penis. The penis is stout, clearly demarcated into three segments, and bears a prominent groove on the mid-ventral line.