accessory gland
- Pronunciation
- /ak-SE-suh-ree gland/
- Category
- Anatomy
- Singular
- accessory gland
- Plural
- accessory glands
Definition
Glands that are part of the reproductive system, usually producing substances like seminal fluid or mucus that facilitate reproduction.
Etymology
From Latin 'accessorius' meaning 'contributing' or 'additional', and 'glandula' meaning 'gland'.
Example
In many species of insects, the accessory glands produce the seminal fluid that nourishes and aids in the transfer of sperm to the female.
Synonyms
- Reproductive gland
Related Terms
- Seminal fluid
- Reproduction
- Gonads
- Mating
Usage Notes
Accessory glands can vary widely in their structure and function between different species of insects.