bio chapter 16.1

Pathway of sperm

1. Testes

2. Epididymis

3. Vas deferens

4. Ejaculatory duct

5. Urethra

Testes

The male reproductive organs that produce sperm and hormones, such as testosterone. Site for spermatogenesis and acts as an endocrine gland

Vas deferens (ductus)

Tube carries sperm from testes to urethra

Ejaculatory duct

a tubule formed

at the union of the vas deferens

and the seminal vesicle ducts and

opening into the urethra

Epididymis

matures and stores sperm cells in coiled tubules

Vasectomy

A means of birth or control where the vas deferens is surgically cut. Does not affect sperm or hormone production.

Spermatogenesis

process by

which spermatogonia divide and

differentiate into mature sperm cells

Seminiferous tubules

coiled ducts

found within the testes, where

immature sperm cells divide and

differentiate

Spermatocytes

cell that arises

from division of spermatogonia

during spermatogenesis

Spermatogonia

sperm-producing

cells found in the seminiferous

tubules

Sertoli cell

Nourishes developing sperm cell untill mature. Provide barrier between blood and seminiferous tubules. Barrier controls entry and exit of hormones, nutrients and other chemicals which protects sperm

Scrotum

The pouch of skin that contains the testicles, helping to regulate their temperature for optimal sperm production. Needs to be slightly cooler than body temperature (below).