BIOS 1710 Animal Reproduction

Two types of cell division and their difference

Meiosis produces gametes with half the number of chromosomes; mitosis produces identical cells for growth and repair.

Two types of reproduction, pros/cons, and subtypes

Asexual: no partner, quick, but low diversity (binary fission, budding, fragmentation, parthenogenesis); Sexual: high diversity but needs partner (conjugation, syngamete).

R-strategists vs K-strategists

R-strategists: many offspring, low investment; K-strategists: few offspring, high investment.

Main parts of male and female reproductive systems and functions

Male: testes (sperm), vas deferens (transport), penis (delivery); Female: ovaries (eggs), fallopian tubes (transport/fertilization), uterus (development), vagina (entry).

How are eggs and sperm brought together?

In humans, fertilization occurs when sperm travel through the vagina and uterus to meet the egg in the fallopian tube.

Conditions promoting sexual vs asexual reproduction

Sexual favored in changing environments for diversity; asexual favored in stable environments for efficiency.

Primary challenges for male and female reproductive systems

Male: delivering sperm effectively; Female: allowing sperm in but keeping microbes out (labia, vaginal flora).

Why are the testicles outside the body?

They must be cooler than body temperature for optimal sperm production.

Properties of the vagina that prevent microbes from reaching the uterus

Acidic environment, beneficial flora, and long structure act as barriers.