Spermatogenesis in bombyx mori. I. The canal system joining sister spermatocytes

Abstract

An electron microscopic investigation was made of the origin and morphology of the canal system that connects sister spermatocytes of larval Bombyx mori. Canal formation results from incomplete cleavages during the mitoses which immediately precede meiosis. We suggest the lip which surrounds each canal is derived from the contractile ring which is prevented from constricting completely by interaction with the midbody. Cells were found with as many as four canals which demonstrates that canal rims can persist through a number of mitotic cycles. Speculations are advanced as to the significance of these canals in restricting gonocytes from unlimited divisions.