SPERMATOCYSTS IN AEDES AEGYPTI (LINNAEUS)

Abstract

During larval life the the number of compartments (spermatocysts) in the testes increase about 5 times, to a maximum of 24. Spermatids may begin to differentiate into spermatozoa just before pupation. Usually, differentiation occurs in pupae only and always after the first 24 hours. Both testes produce 12,000 to 13,000 spermatozoa. Many of these sperm begin to fill the postgonadal system during the day of adult emergence. It is suggested that complete filling takes about 2 days. The number of testicular compartments does not clearly reflect these changes or sexual activity of the adult. The number of compartments gradually declines during adult life in the absence of mating. After multiple matings the male uses up most of the sperm in the postgonadal system and 2 to 3 days are needed to re -plenish this supply. It is suggested that this replenishment involves the formation and maturation of 11 extra compartments.