Pterigopodia of Orectolobus maculatus (Orectolobidae).
It is called pterygopodium to each of the organs that can be used by male cartilaginous fish in reproduction.
They are of cylindrical shape, and the result of a modification of the posterior part of the pelvic fins in a wound way and with the edges superimposed. The pterigopods of the adult specimens are reinforced with calcium salts.
Each pterygopodium has a subcutaneous organ, called a siphon, whose function is to fill with water and then expel it mixed with sperm. Before copulation, the pterigopodium rises and its siphon is filled with water through an orifice to the effect; in most cases, only one of the pterigopods, which is the only one with which penetration will be done (as is the case with the semipene of the scaly reptiles).
After filling with water, the pterygopodium is introduced into the vagina and opens like an umbrella. The ejaculation is water and sperm.
Chimera males have similar appendages to the head; are considered to employ them to help secure the female. Etymology
It is a word formed by two Greek words: pterigo = wing or fin, Can = pie.
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