Examination of the function of insect male genitalia using a fine fluorescent beads

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Male genitalia of insects are complex in their shape including several independent parts. However, the function of each part of male genitalia remains mostly unknown. In this project, the attachment sites of male and female genitalia were examined using a fine fluorescent beads. These fluorescent beads were attached to the each part of male genitalia, and after copulation with the female we detected the beads on the female abdominal tips under the binocular scope. In mantids, we found that the asymmetric male genitalia functions in grasping the female ovipositor before spermatophore transfer. Thus, this method may be used for examining the insect male genital function.