bio chapter 16.2

Seminal fluid

Protection and assistance of sperm, helps with delivery of gametes fertilization. Secreted by seminal vesicles, prostate gland, and cowpeas gland

Seminal vesicles

Fluids from vesicles contain fructose and prostaglandins. Fructose provides energy, prostaglandins act as chemical signal in female system

Prostate gland

Secrets an alkaline buffer (maintains pH). Protects sperm cells against acidic environment of female reproductive system.

Cowpeas glands

Secrete mucus rich fluids prior to ejaculation

• Protect sperm cells from acids found in urethra associated

with passage of urine; assist sperm movement

Male hormones

Hormones develop primary sexual characteristicsDirectly involved in reproduction and are present

at birth

• Male sex hormones: androsterone and testosterone

(androgens) are produced in interstitial (Leydig)

cells of testes

Interstitial cells

are found between seminiferous

cells of teste

Testosterone

more potent and abundant

hormone

•Stimulates spermatogenesis

•Influences development of secondary male

sexual characteristics at puberty

FSH

elps control the amount of sperm that the testicles (testes) make

LH

stimulates the production of testosterone by the Leydig cells in the testes