External Morphology of the Female Genitalia of Lixus nordmanni Hochhuth, 1847 (Coleoptera: Curculionidae, Lixinae): A Scanning Electron Microscope Study

Abstract

The female genitalia of Lixus nordmanni Hochhuth, 1847 (Coleoptera: Curculionidae) were examined by light and scanning electron microscope (SEM). A detailed description about it is provided. The female genitalia comprise spermatheca, genital spicule, 8 th abdominal sternite and ovipositor. The spermatheca consists of reservoir, spermathecal duct and accessory gland. It seems like a hook shape. Its surface is strongly sclerotised. The genital spicule is much shortened and the 8 th abdominal sternite like V-shaped. The ovipositor (sternites) organ appears symmetrically swollen tube.