Abstract
The fine structure of mature sperm from the spiny lobster (Panulirus) has been examined. Each sperm comprises a nucleus, lamellar region, and acrosome. The nucleus (Feulgen-positive region) contains uncondensed chromatin and is limited by a nuclear envelope. A variable number of spikes extend from the nucleus. The spikes are lined by evaginated nuclear envelope and are packed with microtubules, which span the nucleus proper. The spikes are stationary, and the sperm are immotile. The lamellar body, which lies at one side of the base of the acrosome and external to the nuclear envelope, contains numerous stacks of membrane and small mitochondria-like bodies. The acrosomal vesicle (PAS-positive region) is structurally complex and can be divided into four discrete zones, which are homogeneous, scrolled, crystalline, and flocculent in appearance. The vesicle is surrounded by periacrosomal material which is flocculent near the base of the acrosome and filamentous at the apex. The structural features of Panulirus sperm are compared to those of other reptantians (lobsters, crayfish, crabs) and natantians (prawns, shrimp), and it is concluded that at least two basic structural plans for decapod sperm exist.
Published Version
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