hermaphrodite self sterile

Hermaphrodites fail to produce any viable progeny via self-fertilization. However, such hermaphrodites can successfully reproduce if mated to control males.

over retracted male tail

Adult males exhibit a truncated tail, often without a fan or have well-developed fans but squarish, truncated back ends compared to control. In C. elegans this is due to precocious male tail tip retraction beginning in the early L3 stage (normally retraction begins in the L4 stage). Condition can be lethal if the function of the anus is affected.