Structure and ultrastructure of the male gonad of Bufo fustiger (Anura: Bufonidae)

Abstract

Morphology and ultrastructure of the male gonad of the endemic toad to Cuba, Bufo fustiger was described. Eight adults were collected in the area of La Chorrera in Pinar del Rio province. They were transferred to the laboratory and treated properly. Gonads were processed to be observed by light microscopy and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). We used the atomic force microscope to observe spermatozoa. The results indicate that in anterior position the male gonad has a Bidder organ. The proper testis shows an organization in seminiferous tubules, and within these, sex cells (spermatogonia, spermatocytes I and II, spermatids in differentiation and spermatozoa) are arranged in the form of cysts similar to other anurans which indicates a conservation of this feature within amphibians and anamniotas. Spermatids with the presence of mitochondria and the formation of the acrosom were observed by TEM in spermiogenesis process. The sperm is thin, with a conical head. The tail has an axonema pattern with 9 + 2 microtubules. Also were observed spermatozoa with two tails. Was not detected the presence of undulating membrane. These results could help shed light on the taxonomy of the group.