![]() |
Histology Home Page |
||
![]() |
System diagram |
![]()
FUNCTION The primary function of the male reproductive system is reproduction, which includes the production of spermatozoa, the transportation of spermatozoa from the testes out of the male body, the secretion by glands, and the placement of spermatozoa in the female reproductive tract. Spermatozoa are produced in the testes then transported from the testes by a series of ducts which become gradually larger and connect with the urethra of the penis. Various accessory glands in the male system secrete materials which together with the spermatozoa constitutes the semen. A secondary function of the male reproductive system is the production of the male hormones which are responsible for the secondary sex characteristics of the male animal.
STRUCTURE The male reproductive system is composed of several distinct organs. These include the testes, epididymis, deferent ducts, accessory glands, and the penis. The testis (plural, testes) is both an exocrine organ (compound, coiled, tubular gland) producing cells, i.e., spermatozoa, and an endocrine organ, secreting hormones, i.e., testosterone. Accessory glands (not all are present in all species) include the ampullary glands, vesicular glands, prostate gland, bulbourethral gland and urethral glands.
|
|
Porcine
male reproductive system: |
Diagram shows all of the
organs and their relationships to each other. |
OSU CVM home Histology home Male Reproduction index
Problems? Content: Dr.
Charlotte Ownby; Web Page operation: Betty Handlin
Copyright© 1999 Oklahoma State University College of Veterinary Medicine
This page was last updated 10/19/07 11:04:05 AM