Female reproductive

Pronunciation: /FEE-mayl ree-pruh-DUHK-tiv/

Category: Anatomy

Singular: Female reproductive system

Plural: Female reproductive systems

Definition

The organs and structures in female insects and arachnids involved in the production of eggs, fertilization, and laying of eggs or birthing of live young.

Etymology

From Latin 'femella' meaning 'young woman' or 'girl' and 'reproductivus', from 're-', meaning 'again' and 'producere', meaning 'to produce'.

Example

The female reproductive system of the honey bee includes a pair of ovaries that produce eggs.

Synonyms

Egg-laying structures
Ovipositor (in some contexts)

Related Terms

Ovary
Oviduct
Ovipositor
Eggs
Fertilization

Usage Notes

In insects, the female reproductive system typically includes structures like the ovaries, oviducts, spermatheca, and ovipositor. In arachnids, it generally consists of the ovaries and associated ducts.