Microscopic Secrets of Clytra novempunctata: High-Resolution SEM Exploration of Male and Female Genital Ultrastructure

This study presents the first characterization of the ultrastructure of the aedeagus and spermatheca of Clytra novempunctata (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae: Clytrinae) from Turkey using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Specimens collected from Ankara, Çankırı, Gaziantep, and Kayseri provinces were examined in detail using SEM and stereo microscopy, and both male and female genital structures were evaluated together. Although genital morphology plays a critical role in species identification within the genus Clytra, no previous study has simultaneously examined these structures in C. novempunctata. This research provides new and original morphological data that contribute to the taxonomic understanding of the subfamily Clytrinae. Ultrastructural analyses revealed that the dorsal wall is yellow at the base and dark brown in the distal half; the median lobe broadens from the base toward the apex, forming a dome-like narrowing in the subapical region, and terminates in a sharply tapered, beak-shaped apex. In lateral view, a pronounced curvature of 90–180° was observed in the mid-region, along with a marked expansion in the distal two-thirds. The orifice is oval in shape, with ultrastructural punctation concentrated in this region, and no setae were detected on the base or other examined areas. The spermatheca is characterized by a broad, cane-like vasculum, a rounded cornu, and a more flattened nodulus. The collum and ramus are clearly distinguishable and bifurcate into two branches: the longer branch connects to the spermathecal gland, while the shorter branch joins the spermathecal duct. Sparse ultrastructural punctation was observed on the vasculum, and the ampulla is distinctly developed. The observable proximal portion of the ductus is cylindrical with smooth walls and extends in a spiral form; however, due to breakage of the distal spermathecal duct, structural differences between the two components could not be fully assessed. These newly identified features enhance the differentiation of C. novempunctata from morphologically similar Clytra species and increase the diagnostic value of genital structures. The dataset obtained in this study will make an important contribution to more precise species delimitation and improved taxonomic resolution within the genus when integrated with future phylogenetic analyses. High-resolution SEM and stereo-microscope images are also provided to support the morphological descriptions.