Mechanism and ecological significance of sperm storage in the Northern Fulmar with reference to its occurrence in other birds

The Auk
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Abstract

Sperm-storage glands were found in the uterovaginal (UV) region of the oviduct in Northern Fulmars (Fulmarus glacialis), Horned Puffins (Fratercula corniculata), and Leach's Storm-Petrels (Oceanodroma leucorhoa) collected before or shortly after egg laying. Previously described only in domestic Galliformes, UV sperm-storage glands may prove to be a common feature of the avian reproductive system. There is as yet no compelling explanation of their function in the Horned Puffin. In the Northern Fulmar, and probably in other petrels, however, sperm-storage glands allow the separation of the male and female over pelagic waters for several weeks immediately before egg laying. The likelihood of prolonged viability of sperm in the female reproductive tract should be considered in interpreting the sexual behavior of other wild birds.

Publication type Article
Publication Subtype Journal Article
Title Mechanism and ecological significance of sperm storage in the Northern Fulmar with reference to its occurrence in other birds
Series title The Auk
Volume 100
Issue 3
Year Published 1983
Language English
Publisher American Ornithological Society
Contributing office(s) Alaska Science Center
Description 8 p.
First page 593
Last page 600
Country United States
State Alaska
Other Geospatial Semidi Islands
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