Copulatory duct
- Pronunciation
- /koh-POH-lew-tor-ee duhkt/
- Category
- Anatomy
- Singular
- Copulatory duct
- Plural
- Copulatory ducts
Definition
A passage in female spiders and some insects through which sperm travels during mating and fertilization.
Etymology
From Latin 'copulare', meaning 'to connect or join', and 'ductus', meaning 'a leading or conducting'.
Example
The copulatory ducts of the female spider are crucial structures for accomplishing successful fertilization during the mating process.
Synonyms
- Spermathecal duct
Related Terms
- Spermatheca
- Genital tract
- Mating
- Fertilization
Usage Notes
In spiders, the structure and configuration of the copulatory ducts can vary significantly between species and can be used for taxonomic purposes.