GENITAL LOCKING IN THE COPULA OF THE THYNNINAE (HYMENOPTERA, TIPHIIDAE)

Abstract

Aspeas of che mechanics of phorectic copulation of Eiaph roptrra unlmejormis (Halidav) are described.
Various parts of the complex aedeagus. che eight meiasomal slernum of the male and ihe teníale
copulatory pouch, make the locking mechanism possible. When protruding, the eight slernum roíales
and push the male genitalia into the female. The copulatory pouch is formed by protrusion of the last
stemum of the female, il has a ventral space for the aedeagus. lateral pouches for the flap-like aedeagal
struaures and a dorsal sclerotized bar for the articulated penis valvae.