Spermatophylax
- Pronunciation
- /spur-muh-TOF-uh-laks/
- Category
- Reproduction
- Singular
- Spermatophylax
- Plural
- Spermatophylaxes
Definition
A nutritive, gelatinous mass produced by males of certain insect species, such as crickets and katydids, which is transferred to the female during mating along with the spermatophore.
Etymology
From Greek 'sperma', meaning 'seed, semen' and 'phylax', meaning 'watcher, guard'.
Example
In some cricket species, the female consumes the spermatophylax after mating, which is thought to increase the chances of successful fertilization.
Synonyms
Related Terms
- Spermatophore
- Mating
- Reproductive behavior
Usage Notes
The spermatophylax not only provides a nutritional benefit to the female but also may increase the male's reproductive success by ensuring the spermatophore remains attached longer.