Lab Manual Chapter 38 - Male Reproductive System Structure and Function

These flashcards cover key vocabulary and concepts related to the structure and function of the male reproductive system.

Sperm

The male gamete produced by the testes.

Scrotum

A pouch of loose skin housing the testes, keeping them slightly cooler than body temperature.

Spermatogenesis

The process of sperm formation occurring in the seminiferous tubules.

Epididymis

The site of sperm maturation and storage located posterior to the testis.

Ductus deferens

A duct that carries sperm from the epididymis to the ejaculatory duct.

Ejaculatory duct

A duct formed by the union of the ductus deferens and the seminal gland duct.

Seminal gland

Accessory gland that secretes approximately 60% of semen volume.

Prostate gland

Accessory gland that secretes a milky fluid increasing sperm viability.

Bulbourethral glands

Small glands that produce mucus to lubricate the urethra.

Tunica albuginea

The fibrous capsule surrounding each testis.

Sustentacular (Sertoli) cells

Cells that support and nourish developing sperm in the seminiferous tubules.

Acrosome

A vesicle in the sperm head containing enzymes for penetrating the egg.

Corpus spongiosum

The erectile tissue surrounding the spongy urethra in the penis.

Corpora cavernosa

The two erectile tissues that make up the bulk of the penis.

Spermatogonia

Diploid stem cells that give rise to sperm in the seminiferous tubules.

Androgens

Hormones, primarily testosterone, that are produced by the testes.