Accessory Gland

A gland associated with the male or female reproductive system, and producing substances associated with the sperm or eggs, respectively. Male accessory glands produce such substances to facilitate sperm transfer, as a barrier to further insemination, as a means of altering female behavior, and as a means of providing nutrition to the female. Females produce substances for packaging their eggs, adhering them to a substrate, and providing a protective coating over the eggs.

Fig. 7

Diagram of the female reproductive system, as found in Rhagoletis (Diptera) (adapted from Chapman, The insects: structure and function).