Gonopore

Definition

A reproductive opening in arthropods, including insects and arachnids, through which eggs or sperm are released.

Etymology

From Greek 'gonos', meaning 'seed' or 'offspring', and 'poros', meaning 'passage' or 'pore'.

Example

The female cricket deposits her eggs through her gonopore.

Synonyms

• Genital pore

Related Terms

• Ovipositor
• Spermatheca
• Reproductive system
• Genitalia

Usage Notes

Gonopores can be located at various positions on the body depending on the species and sex of the arthropod.