Final answer:
Spermatogenesis is the process of sperm production, starting with spermatogonia and culminating in the formation of spermatozoa after several stages, including mitosis, two rounds of meiosis, and spermiogenesis. The process occurs in the seminiferous tubules of the testes and takes about 64 days.
Step-by-step explanation:
Stages of Spermatogenesis
The process of producing mature sperm, known as spermatogenesis, includes several key stages, initiating with the mitotic division of spermatogonia. These are stem cells that divide to produce primary spermatocytes, which then undergo two consecutive divisions of meiosis. The first meiotic division creates secondary spermatocytes, and the second results in haploid spermatids. The transformation of spermatids into spermatozoa (formed sperm) is referred to as spermiogenesis.
Main Stages of Spermatogenesis:
Mitotic division of spermatogonia into primary spermatocytes.
First meiotic division of primary spermatocytes into secondary spermatocytes.
Second meiotic division of secondary spermatocytes into haploid spermatids.
Spermiogenesis: the maturation of spermatids into spermatozoa.
Upon their release from the seminiferous tubules, the spermatozoa are moved to the epididymis where maturation continues. During ejaculation, spermatozoa exit via the ductus deferens, pass through the ejaculatory duct, and finally travel through the urethra to be expelled. They are accompanied by secretions from various glands, which form semen and aid in successful fertilization within the female reproductive tract.