title: Germinal and non-germinal lines in the ovotestis of Helix aspersa: a survey.
abstract: The study of gonadal organogenesis and differentiation by means of light and electron microscopy suggested the following in Helix aspersa: (1) the distal parts of the acini have components of mesodermal origin, whereas the neck and efferent duct comprise ectodermal elements; (2) a segregation of a germinal line occurs early, during the embryonic life; (3) in juvenile and adult animals, male and female cells arise from a germinal ring located at the base of the acinar neck. Apart from developing oocytes, the epithelium lining the distal region of the acini consists of somatic cells (Sertoli and follicle cells).
authors.affiliation: Faculté des Sciences et des Techniques, Laboratoire de Zoologie et Embryologie. UA CNRS n∘ 040687, Université de Franche-Comté, Place Maréchal Leclerc, F-25030, Besançon Cedex, France.
authors.forename: Bernadette
authors.initials: B
authors.lastname: Griffond
authors.affiliation: Faculté des Sciences et des Techniques, Laboratoire de Zoologie et Embryologie. UA CNRS n∘ 040687, Université de Franche-Comté, Place Maréchal Leclerc, F-25030, Besançon Cedex, France.
authors.forename: Jacqueline
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Bride
keywords: Germinal line; Germinal ring; Gonadal organogenesis; Helix aspersa