Summary
As animals became more complex, specific organs and organ systems developed to support specific functions for the organism. The reproductive structures that evolved in land animals allow males and females to mate, fertilize internally, and support the growth and development of offspring. Processes developed to produce reproductive cells that had exactly half the number of chromosomes of each parent so that new combinations would have the appropriate amount of genetic material. Gametogenesis, the production of sperm (spermatogenesis) and eggs (oogenesis), takes place through the process of meiosis.
Glossary
bulbourethral gland
secretion that cleanses the urethra prior to ejaculation
clitoris
sensory structure in females; stimulated during sexual arousal
labia majora
large folds of tissue covering the inguinal area
labia minora
smaller folds of tissue within the labia majora
oogenesis
process of producing haploid eggs
oviduct
(also, fallopian tube) muscular tube connecting the uterus with the ovary area
penis
male reproductive structure for urine elimination and copulation
prostate gland
structure that is a mixture of smooth muscle and glandular material and that contributes to semen
scrotum
sac containing testes; exterior to the body
semen
fluid mixture of sperm and supporting materials
seminal vesicle
secretory accessory gland in males; contributes to semen
seminiferous tubule
site of sperm production in testes
spermatogenesis
process of producing haploid sperm
testes
pair of reproductive organs in males
uterus
environment for developing embryo and fetus
vagina
muscular tube for the passage of menstrual flow, copulation, and birth of offspring