Macroscopic aspects of the anatomy of the reproductive system of escargots: Achatina fulica and Achatina monochromatica

Abstract

The macro-anatomy of the reproductive system of both Achatina fulica and Achatina monochromatica was studied, by establishing the morphologic parameters of both species. Fifteen samples of each species with nearly twelve years old from the same family were used. The specimens were sacrificed by freezing (-2ºC). The collection of the reproductive system was made after the retreat from the shell and dissection of the animal. It was observed that even if the specimens have been maintained in the same environmental and alimentary conditions, as well as submitted to the same type of selection, the development of their reproductive organs show some variation. In both species, some segments of the reproductive system morphologic aspects differ macroscopically, although the disposition and the location of these segments are identical.