title: Variability of the reproductive system of Piscicola respirans (Troschel, 1850) (Hirudinea, Piscicolidae).
abstract: The studies on the reproductive system of P. respirans, based on 115 specimens, have revealed its considerable variability. Two main types of the system can be distinguished: 1) ovaries reaching the first pair of testes, ejaculatory ducts symmetrical, no seminal vesicles (juvenile individuals), 2) ovaries reaching the first pair of testes, ejaculatory ducts symmetrical, seminal vesicles reaching the ends of ovaries (adults individuals). The structure of the reproductive system is correlated with the individual size and age. Because the reproductive system of P. respirans as described by BRUMPT (1900) and SKET (1968) based on type specimens designated by them, is found only in a small fraction (c. 4-8%) of specimens, a redescription of the species is necessary, best based on a neotype series.
authors.affiliation: Warmia and Masuria University in Olsztyn, Department of Zoology.
authors.forename: A
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Bielecki
authors.forename: A
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Jarosz
authors.forename: M
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Daczewska
authors.forename: J
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Saczko
mesh_terms: D000818:Animals; D004543:Ejaculatory Ducts / Q000033:anatomy & histology; D005260:Female; D005399:Fishes / Q000469:parasitology; D014644:Genetic Variation / Q000235:genetics*; D005837:Genitalia, Male / Q000033:anatomy & histology*; D007865:Leeches / Q000033:anatomy & histology* / Q000145:classification* / Q000502:physiology; D008297:Male; D010053:Ovary / Q000033:anatomy & histology; D012098:Reproduction / Q000235:genetics; D012669:Seminal Vesicles / Q000033:anatomy & histology; D013045:Species Specificity; D013737:Testis / Q000033:anatomy & histology; D014566:Urogenital System / Q000033:anatomy & histology