Summary IEB Matric Life Sciences: Human Reproduction

, 1. THE MALE REPRODUCTIVE SYSTEM

Prostate gland

Seminal vesicle
Sperm duct/ vas
deferens

Urethra
Cowper’s gland

Epididymis
Penis



Foreskin

Scrotum



Testes (contains
germinal epithelium
and seminiferous
tubules)

, STRUCTURES AND FUNCTIONS

PART STRUCTURE FUNCTION
Scrotum Pouch like structure Temperature regulator for
testes by keeping them 2-
3 degrees lower than body
temp

Protects Sperm
Testes (PRIMARY Glandular gonads Produce sperm in the
SEX ORGAN) germinal layer of the
2 testis per male seminiferous tubules

Contain highly convoluted Produce testosterone (by
tubules: SEMINIFEROUS interstitial cells)
TUBULES which are lined
with haploid spermatozoa

Epididymis (DUCT) Highly convoluted Matures immature sperm
structure which forms is to become motile and
an extension of the fertile
seminiferous tubules
Stores sperm
Sperm duct/ Vas Muscular continuation of Transports sperm from
deferens (DUCT) epididymis epididymis to urethra by
peristaltic waves (strong
contraction of smooth
muscle in walls of ducts)
Urethra (DUCT) Duct leading to exterior of Transports sperm and
body semen

Prostate gland walnut sized gland that Secretes fluid that aids in
(ACCESSORY GLAND) surrounds the urethra at transportation of sperm
the base of the bladder • Fluid contains enzymes
which make the sperm
more active
• Makes up 1/3 of
seminal fluid
Seminal vesicle Sac like pouch that Secretes sugar rich fluid
(ACCESSORY GLAND) attaches to the sperm duct (fructose)
• Provides sperm with
energy for movement
Cowper’s gland 2 small glands that open Secretes alkaline mucous-
(ACCESSORY GLAND) into the urethra like fluid when aroused