spermatheca

A receptacle in the reproductive tract of many female or hermaphrodite invertebrates and certain female vertebrates, in which spermatozoa are received and stored until needed to fertilize the ova.

A spermatic case, capsule, or sheath; a receptacle for semen; specifically, the seminal receptacle in the female, as of various insects and other invertebrates, which receives and conveys or detains the sperm of the male. More correctly spermatotheca. See cuts under Dendrocœla, ovariole, and Rhabdocœla.

A small sac connected with the female reproductive organs of insects and many other invertebrates, serving to receive and retain the spermatozoa.

A small sac within the reproductive tract of some female invertebrates, such as insects, which stores sperm until it is used to fertilize the ova.