Macroscopic and microscopic anatomy of the hemipenes of the snake Bitis arietans arietans

Abstract EN

The macroscopic and microscopic anatomy of the hemipenis of the snake Bitis arietans arietans were investigated.

Each hemipenis appeared as a bilobed structure.

By using SEM at low magnifications, the two lobes of the hemipenis appeared to form, at the base, a sharp angle.

The two lobes are provided with a well-developed arrangement of sharp, sloping spines or hooks.

In general, most of the spines are directed backward. Histologically a pleated epithelium covers the hemipenis.

This epithelium is very thin at the tips of the spines, but gradually thickens as it goes basally to become continuous with that in between the spines.

The above epithelium covers a special kind of fibrous connective tissue which is provided with a well developed network of venous sinuses.

The spines are provided with cartilagenous cones embedded in a fibrous connective tissue.

At the back of the large lobe of the hemipenis there are numerous strands of striated muscles as a continuation of the propulsar muscle.