Scanning Electron Microscopical Confirmation of Spongy and Interstitial Cell Structure in Dysdercus Koenigii F. Testis

Summary

Scanning electron microscopical studies were conducted on the spongy and interstitial tissues of the testis of D. koenigii F. following cryosectioning. The cells of spongy tissue are situated between wall and septa and have short irregular processes that make mutual contact. Spaces between the processes form an intricate system of confluent channels permeating the whole of the tissue. The loose network also leaves some spaces adjacent to the inner surface of the outer testicular wall. Prominent vacuoles and tracheae were observed in spongy cells. Openings are also present on the inner wall of the testis that faces the lumen containing developing spermatocysts. The cells of the interstitial tissue bordering spermatocysts and inner lining of septa give rise to numerous villi extending into the lumen of the cysts and also form cytoplasmic bridges between the outer surfaces of adjacent cysts. A feature of the villi was their apparent transformation into bulbous bodies that either burst and release their contents near the metamorphosing spermatids or bud off and accompany the nearly mature spermatozoa within the lumen of the cyst. These intact bulbous bodies each possess an opening on their surface.

Keywords:

• Scanning electron microscopy
• Spongy tissue
• Interstitial cell
• Testis
• Dysdercus koenigii F