Ovariuterus of Pandinus imperator, Koch (Scorpiones; Scorpionidae): comparison of virgin female with mother.
The ovariuterus of the female Pandinus imperator Koch (Scorpiones; Scorpionidae), was compared in a virgin female and a female that had previously given birth at least twice (in the laboratory). The virgin female did not have any embryonic diverticulae (Ed) nor did it have any degenerated, post-partum diverticulae (Dd), whereas in the mother scorpion several Dd were clearly seen on the ovariuterus. This latter female lacked any embryonic diverticulae (Ed). The number of the Dd corresponds well with the number of juveniles in the last brood born to that female during the previous year. Based on the total number of diverticula observed, and the average known litter size, it is suggested that these long-lived scorpions are potentially able to breed at least six times during their lifetime. Since they apparently do not breed in consecutive years (as is evident from the lack of Ed in the female that had bred a year before) and perhaps only every alternate year, they are capable of breeding for 12 years. If a litter amounts to about 25 young, a female is capable of producing 150 young. As it takes about three years to mature from nymph to adult, the life expectancy in this species is therefore about 15 years, by a conservative estimate.
Mahsberg
D
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Biozentrum, Universität Würzburg, Germany.
Warburg
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MR
D000818:Animals; D005260:Female; D005836:Genitalia, Female / Q000033:anatomy & histology* / Q000196:embryology / Q000648:ultrastructure; D008855:Microscopy, Electron, Scanning; D010053:Ovary / Q000033:anatomy & histology* / Q000196:embryology; D012605:Scorpions / Q000033:anatomy & histology* / Q000196:embryology