Related Experiment Video
Updated: Oct 10, 2026

Laboratory Maintenance of the Lower Dipteran Fly Bradysia (Sciara) coprophila: A New/Old Emerging Model Organism
Published on: April 19, 2024
Carotenoids in the spermatophores of bushcrickets (Orthoptera: Ephippigerinae)
K G Heller1, P Fleischmann, A Lutz-Röder
1Department of Zoology II, University of Erlangen-Nürnberg, Erlangen, Germany. kheller@biologie.uni-erlangen.de
Abstract:
During mating male bushcrickets transfer large spermatophores, which have been demonstrated to play an important role in female nutrition and egg production. Until now only relatively unspecific substances such as water and proteins were known to be present within these spermatophores. We found that in the bushcricket Ephippiger zelleri the spermatophores contain substantial amounts of carotenoids (mainly lutein and zeaxanthin) that are also found in the eggs of this species. Carotenoids are well known for their positive effects on survival and reproduction in animals. This is the first example, to our knowledge, where such specific vitamin-like substances were found to be transferred from male to female during mating.
Related Concept Videos
Channel Rhodopsins
Rhodopsins belong to the family of cell surface proteins called G-protein coupled receptors,...
Background and Environment Affect Phenotype
An example of how genetic background affects phenotype can be seen in horses. The Extension gene in horses is responsible for their coat color. A wild-type gene (EE) produces black pigment in the coat, while a mutant gene (ee) produces red pigment. A...
Spermatogenesis

