Clasper meaning

A clasper is a specialized mating organ found in male sharks and rays used to transfer sperm to the female during reproduction.


Clasper definitions

Word backwards repsalc
Part of speech The part of speech of the word "clasper" is a noun.
Syllabic division clasp-er
Plural The plural of the word "clasper" is "claspers."
Total letters 7
Vogais (2) a,e
Consonants (5) c,l,s,p,r

Claspers are specialized organs found in male cartilaginous fishes such as sharks, rays, and skates. These reproductive structures are used during mating to transfer sperm into the female's cloaca.

Structure of Clasper

Claspers are modified pelvic fins located on the ventral side of the male fish. They are elongated, stiff, and grooved structures that facilitate the transfer of sperm. The grooves in the claspers help in directing the sperm into the female's reproductive tract.

Function of Clasper

The primary function of claspers is to deliver sperm into the female reproductive system during copulation. Unlike most bony fishes, cartilaginous fishes do not have an external reproductive opening for sperm transfer. Therefore, claspers serve as an essential adaptation for successful reproduction.

Clasper Development

Claspers are not present in juvenile male sharks and rays. They develop as the male fish matures and reaches sexual maturity. The growth and development of claspers are controlled by hormonal changes in the fish's body.

Unique Adaptation

Claspers are a unique adaptation that allows cartilaginous fishes to successfully reproduce in their environment. They play a crucial role in the reproductive success of these species and have evolved over time to enhance mating efficiency.

Claspers are essential reproductive structures in male cartilaginous fishes, ensuring the transfer of sperm during mating. These specialized organs demonstrate the remarkable adaptability of sharks, rays, and skates in their reproductive strategies.


Clasper Examples

  1. The male shark used its clasper to fertilize the eggs of the female shark.
  2. The insect's clasper helped it grip onto the tree branch tightly.
  3. The snake used its clasper to grasp the small prey before swallowing it whole.
  4. The male butterfly attached to the female with its clasper during mating.
  5. The chameleon extended its tongue with the help of its clasper to catch the insect.
  6. The fisherman removed the hook from the fish's clasper before releasing it back into the water.
  7. The male cat used its clasper to hold onto the female cat during mating.
  8. The male mosquito's clasper helped it grasp onto the female mosquito during mating.
  9. The bat wrapped its wings around the prey, using its clasper to catch it.
  10. The male seahorse used its clasper to transfer eggs from the female seahorse into its pouch.


Most accessed

Search the alphabet

  • #
  • Aa
  • Bb
  • Cc
  • Dd
  • Ee
  • Ff
  • Gg
  • Hh
  • Ii
  • Jj
  • Kk
  • Ll
  • Mm
  • Nn
  • Oo
  • Pp
  • Qq
  • Rr
  • Ss
  • Tt
  • Uu
  • Vv
  • Ww
  • Xx
  • Yy
  • Zz
  • Updated 20/05/2024 - 12:35:22