double spermatophore technique through step 3.
4) Place a single spermatophore between
the thumb and index finger with firm constant
pressure being applied from the bottom (closed
end) toward the top (open end) of the
spermatophore. This pressure ruptures the sperm
sac and liberates a sperm mass that forms a droplet
between the thumb and index finger. It also
separates the sperm mass from a sheath of
glutinous material and the spermatophore. Using
angled forceps, remove the sperm mass so that
the droplet sits on top of the closed tip of the
forceps (Fig. 1).
5) Hold the female securely in the
position described in step 3 and carefully place
the sperm mass inside the thelycum by inverting
the forceps (Fig. 2). The thelycum serves as the
seminal receptacle and is enclosed by the coxae
of the third and fourth set of pereopods and also
partially by the ventral setae of these structures
(Dall et al. 1990). After the sperm mass is correctly
positioned, return the pereopods to their normal
position, which helps to “lock in” the sperm mass