Sexual dimorphism of gnathocoxal glands of the spider Leptyphantes sanctivincentii.
The cave-living spider Leptyphantes sanctivincentii (Simon) (Aranea: Liniphiidae) is characterized by an extreme sexual dimorphism of its gnathocoxal glands. In the female they belong to one type, whereas three different types can be identified in the male; the most remarkable is the type III gland, singularized by the rice-shaped granules which originate from its complex patterned grains. It is likely that the secretion of the male are involved in the course of mating, either as a palp 'lubricant', or as a pheromone carrier.
Juberthie-Jupeau
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Laboratoire souterrain du CNRS, Moulis, 09200 SaintGirons, France.
Lopez
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