hematodocha

Definition

An expandable membranous structure in the male genitalia of spiders that inflates during copulation to aid in sperm transfer.

Etymology

From Greek 'haima' meaning 'blood' and 'dokhe' meaning 'receptacle' or 'container'.

Example

During mating, the hematodocha inflates, allowing the male spider to insert his sperm into the female's epigyne.

Related Terms

• Palp
• Copulation
• Epigyne

Usage Notes

Hematodochae are critical for the mechanical process of mating in spiders and may vary in size and complexity among different spider species.