The mechanism of insemination in the argasid tick, <i>Ornithodorus moubata</i> Murray

Abstract

The spermatophore in Ornithodorus moubata consists of a bulb with a neck at the end of which are two large capsules. When the spermatophore issues from the male opening the capsules are invaginated into the bulb to form a compact but tense object which the male applies to the female aperture with his proboscis. The male releases his grip on the neck, and the tension in the walls of the bulb causes the capsules to evaginate and thus enter the uterus of the female.