The year 2022 was indeed a remarkable year for significant discoveries regarding female reproductive organs, both in animals and humans.
In January, researchers discovered that bottlenose dolphins possess a large S-shaped clitoris that may provide better pleasure than that of humans. And just last month, an investigation revealed that there are over 10,000 nerve endings associated with the female genitalia.
Currently, once again, experts have identified the equivalent reproductive organ in female snakes, debunking long-held misconceptions. Folwell and colleagues dissected the reproductive organs of female snakes across nine different species, utilizing dissection techniques and micro-CT imaging. They found that, similar to males who have two penises (known as hemipenes), female snakes have two hemiclitores that form a triangular structure of varying sizes and shapes.
Triangular hemiclitores in female snakes.
Researchers asserted, “This is a completely distinct structure from hemipenes and is clearly different from surrounding scent glands and tissues. The diversity among species and the presence of nerve fibers are truly astonishing.“
The hemiclitores are small and slender in some snake species studied, lacking spines or hooks like those found in male organs. However, in some others, these structures are “large and conspicuous, occupying a significant portion of the pre-tail region,” making them easily noticeable if one pays attention.
Folwell identified key aspects that make the hemiclitores of snakes unique. Upon examining the tissues under a microscope, Folwell and colleagues discovered that hemiclitores consist of erectile tissue filled with blood cells and bundles of nerve fibers, but do not have spines like the hemipenes of males.
Hemiclitores of female snakes are significant for mating.
These histological features indicate that the hemiclitores of female snakes serve a functional role in mating. The presence of erectile tissues with blood cells suggests that the hemiclitores can become engorged with blood, while the abundance of nerve bundles indicates that their stimulation may provide sensory feedback to the female.
This is indeed a significant discovery as it suggests that snakes may use sensory stimulation to attract mates, rather than the males forcibly copulating with the females as previously thought. However, experts also note that the hemiclitores in female snakes may also play a role in stimulating ovulation or signaling for sperm storage in the oviducts.
