Spermatozoon
Spermatozoon
Spermatozoon (pronunciation: /ˌspɜːrmətəˈzoʊ.ən/), also known as sperm cell, is the male reproductive cell or gamete in all animals, including humans.
Etymology
The term "spermatozoon" originates from the Greek words "sperma" meaning "seed" and "zoon" meaning "living being".
Definition
A spermatozoon is a motile sperm cell, or moving form of the haploid cell that is the male gamete. It is produced in the male reproductive organs (specifically the testes). The primary function of the spermatozoon is to fertilize the ovum, or egg cell, in the female to initiate the formation of a new individual.
Structure
A spermatozoon is composed of a head, a midpiece and a tail. The head contains genetic material, the midpiece has mitochondria which provide energy for the cell, and the tail propels the sperm cell.
Related Terms
- Gamete: A mature haploid male or female germ cell that is able to unite with another of the opposite sex in sexual reproduction to form a zygote.
- Ovum: The female reproductive cell or gamete.
- Testes: The male gonads, which produce sperm and secrete male sex hormones.
- Mitochondria: An organelle found in large numbers in most cells, in which the biochemical processes of respiration and energy production occur.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Spermatozoon
- Wikipedia's article - Spermatozoon
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