Structure of the male reproductive system

Question 1

Name the two functions of the testis

Answer 1

Produce sperm and storage

Androgen production

Question 2

Name five functions of the epididymis

Answer 2

Transport of sperm
Maturation of sperm
Concentration of sperm
Secretion of nutrients
Storage of sperm

Question 3

Describe the process of erection and ejaculation

Answer 3

Spongy tissue in penis fills with blood and therefore an erection was formed.
Ejaculation occurs when semen is released into the female reproductive tract. Sperm is mixed with secretions from accessory gland known as seminal fluid which make up 95% and sperm which makes the final 5% to make semen.

Question 4

Give normal number of sperm per ejaculate in rams and bulls

Answer 4

Rams =1.5-6.0 x 10(9)

Bulls = 5-15 x 10(9)

Question 5

Define Androgen

Answer 5

Development of secondary sexual characteristics

Question 6

State three functions of the androgen

Answer 6

• Growth of antler and horns
• Sexual behaviour
• Body conformation and composition

Question 7

Give the definition of puberty

Answer 7

The time at which the male first develops the ability to fertilise the female and accepted as being attained with the first production of viable sperm

Question 8

Discuss anatomical changes for males during puberty

Answer 8

Increased amounts of androgens
Rapid increase in size of reproductive organs
Production of sperm in the testis
Connection between the free end of the penis and the sheath

Question 9

Describe causes of failure of testis thermoregulation

Answer 9

High temperatures for which testis are exposed to only occur not only when testis are held within the body cavity
High environmental temperature or fever