Reproduction and Life Cycle Male and Female Reproductive Systems

Male Reproductive System Of the body's major systems, the reproductive is the one that differs the most between the sexes and is the only one that does not function until puberty The most important male sex organs are found outside the body. The male system produces sex cells called sperm. Sperm production is continuous (500 million per day), reducing gradually with age.

Male Reproductive Organs Scrotum- bag like structure which contains two testes. It’s function is to keep the testes at the right temperature so they can produce sperm Testes- oval shaped glands responsible for the manufacture of sperm and the sex hormone testosterone Epididymis- Located on the back side of each of the testes. It is a coiled tube in which sperm mature for 1-3 weeks.

Male Reproductive Organs 4. Vas Deferens- receives sperm from the epididymis, carries it to the urethra where it is joined by the seminal vesicle ( accessory gland) 5. Seminal Vesicle- Produces bulk of seminal fluid(60%), this helps make sperm mobile, and provides and energy source or nourishment for the sperm 6. Prostate- Lies just below the bladder, secrets a fluid making up 30% of semen. This fluid protects the sperm by neutralizing the acidity of the urethra and vagina

Urethra- travels through the penis, provides a pathway for sperm and urine. Cowper’s Gland- 5% of semen, neutralize the acidity of trace urine within the urethra. Penis – Functions in sexual reproduction and waste elimination.

Pathway For Sperm During ejaculation, muscle contractions squeeze the sperm in their fluid from the epididymis, along the loop of the vas deferens. The Vas Deferens is joined by the accessory glands ( seminal vesicle, prostate, and cowper’s glands). They create Seminal fluid. Semen (seminal fluid)- sperm mixed with fluids created by accessory glands. Final mix has about 300- 500 million sperm. Only a few hundred will reach the egg and only one will fertilize it.