spermatophore
Definition
Noun: A spermatophore is a capsule or mass of spermatozoa (sperm cells) produced by certain male animals, especially in invertebrates such as insects, crustaceans, and some mollusks. It is transferred to the female during reproduction, often without direct copulation.
Usage Examples
- (A capsule of sperm left for the female to collect.)
- (The sperm packet is physically placed on the female.)
- (The capsule safeguards the sperm cells.)
Advanced Usage
- "to produce a spermatophore": to create the sperm capsule.
- The male octopus produces a specialized spermatophore that is transferred using a modified arm. (The capsule is made and delivered via a body part.)
- "spermatophore transfer": the act of moving the capsule from male to female.
- Spermatophore transfer in newts involves a complex courtship dance. (The delivery process requires specific behaviors.)
Variants and Related Words
- Spermatophoral (adj): relating to or involving a spermatophore.
- The spermatophoral structure is unique to each species. (The capsule's form is specific to the animal.)
- Spermatophore-bearing (adj): carrying or containing a spermatophore.
- The male is spermatophore-bearing during the breeding season. (He carries the capsule at that time.)
Synonyms
- Sperm capsule: a general term for a protective container of sperm.
- Sperm packet: a less formal term for the same structure.
Related Idioms
- None commonly associated with this scientific term.