Male Reproductive Tracts of Mammals (Bulls)

Vocabulary flashcards covering key concepts related to the male reproductive tracts of mammals, specifically bulls.

Scrotum

A bilobed sac that houses the testicles and aids in their temperature regulation.

Spermatogenesis

The process of sperm production that occurs within the seminiferous tubules of the testes.

Gubernaculum

A connective tissue band that guides the descent of the testes into the scrotum.

Cryptorchidism

A condition where the testicles fail to descend properly into the scrotum, can be unilateral or bilateral.

Spermatic Cord

A structure that suspends and supports the testes, containing vas deferens, blood vessels, and nerves.

Vas Deferens

A muscular tube that carries mature sperm from the epididymis to the urethra during ejaculation.

Accessory Glands

Glands that contribute to seminal fluid and include the prostate, seminal vesicles, and bulbourethral glands.

Fibroelastic Penis

A type of penis with limited erectile tissue, resulting in an erection without significant change in diameter.

Sigmoid Flexure

A curved portion of the penis that straightens during erection, aiding in mating.

Retractor Penis Muscle

A muscle that controls the sigmoid flexure, allowing the penis to extend during erection.

Os Penis (Baculum)

A bone found within the penis of some mammals, which varies in size and shape among species.

Tunica Vaginalis

The outermost layer surrounding the testis, composed of visceral and parietal layers.

Castration

The surgical removal of both testicles.

Epididymis

A structure that stores, matures, and transports sperm, consisting of a head, body, and tail.

Bulbourethral Glands

Glands that secrete a lubricating fluid and neutralize acidity in the reproductive tract.

Claspers

Modified pelvic fins in some fish that aid in internal fertilization.

Phallus

A copulatory organ in some male birds, not containing a urethra, used for sperm transfer.