Module 12 Flashcards
function of the male reproductive system
create and transport the male gamete cell, sperm
what are the four parts of a sperm?
head, neck, midpiece, tail
what shape is the head of a sperm?
flat and oval
what is contained in the head of a sperm?
nucleus and acrosomal cap
what does the nucleus of the sperm needed for?
to contribute either an X or Y chromosome to the fertilization process
what is the acrosomal cap?
contains enzymes that are released prior to fertilization to help the sperm pass through layers of the egg
neck of the sperm
connects the head to the midpiece
the midpiece of the sperm
a continuation of the neck with a mitochondrial collar that helps produce energy
another name for the tail of a sperm?
flagellum
purpose of the spermy tail?
source of movement
where is the site of sperm creation and development?
the testes
size of the testes?
length = 4-5cm diameter = 2.5 - 3cm
the testes are ____
glands
what are the two coverings of the testes?
- tunica vaginalis
2. tunica albuginea
tunica vaginalis
- outer protective covering
- extension of the protective covering in the abdominal cavity
tunica albuginea
- inner fibrous coat or capsule
- extensions from the tunica albuginea penetrate into the testes dividing it into approx 250-300 compartmens, known as lobules
each lobule in the tunica albuginea contains?
up to 4 thin and elongated seminiferous tubules
where are the seminiferous tubules located
coiled in the testes
what do the seminiferous tubules do
produce sperm
how long is each seminiferous tubule hen coiled?
approx 8cm
each testes contains its own ______
seminiferous tubule
______ are found between the seminiferous tubules in the loose connective tissue
Leydig cells
what do leydig cells do?
produce and secrete testosterone
what is the scrotum?
sac of skin and fascia surrounding the testes, derived from the anterior abdominal wall