Accessory Gland

A gland associated with the male or female reproductive system, and producing substances associated with the sperm or eggs, respectively (Fig. 7). 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.

Accessory Gland, Figure 7 Diagram of the female reproductive system, as found in Rhagoletis (Diptera) (adapted from Chapman, The insects: structure and function).