Histology of the androgenic gland in Eriphia verrucosa (Forskal, 1775) (Decapoda, Brachyura)

Abstract

This study investigated the histology of the androgenic gland in Eriphia verrucosa (Forskal, 1775). The results obtained with light microscopy show that the androgenic gland in this species consists of 2 cell types. Type I cells are small and do not contain a secretory product. Type 2 cells are considerably larger and may produce a proteinaceous secretion. This study identified the location and structure of the androgenic gland in Eriphia verrucosa, which is an economically important brachyuran crab, and revealed the chemical nature of the secretions produced by its cells.