Histological and electron microscopy observations on the male reproductive system of Coraebus elatus (Fabricius, 1787) (Coleoptera: Buprestidae)

Studying the morphology of the male reproductive system is crucial for understanding the reproductive biology of insects, particularly pest species. This study aimed to characterize the male reproductive system of the strawberry beetle pest Coraebus elatus (Fabricius, 1787) using light and scanning electron microscopies. The results revealed that each testis contains six testis follicles, each displaying distinct stages of differentiation of germ cells. Fully developed sperm pass through the vas deferentia, lined with a single-layer cuboidal epithelium and a muscle layer. While the wall of the tubular accessory glands is lined with a single-layered cuboidal epithelium, the wall of the bean-shaped spermatophoral glands is surrounded by a pseudostratified columnar epithelium. These glands open into the ejaculatory duct which is surrounded by a single-layer cylindrical epithelium and a muscle layer. This study provides valuable data that will serve as a foundation for future research on the morphology and systematic.