Final answer:
Immature sperm mature in the epididymis, a coiled tube attached to the testes, where they develop a tail and acquire motility. After about 12 days of maturation, mature sperm are stored in the epididymis until ejaculation.
Step-by-step explanation:
Immature sperm, known as spermatids, undergo maturation in a structure called the epididymis, which is attached to the testes. The spermatogenesis process leads to the formation of these immature sperm in the seminiferous tubules of the testes. Once in the epididymis, the sperm go through important changes; they grow a tail and shed excess cytoplasm from their heads. This maturation process equips the sperm with the necessary motility, transforming them into mature spermatozoa capable of fertilization. The mitochondria in the connecting piece of the sperm produce ATP, providing the energy needed for movement. Mature sperm are stored in the tail of the epididymis, awaiting ejaculation during which they travel through the ductus deferens and eventually outside the male body.
Immature sperm mature in the epididymis where they develop the ability to swim and are stored until ejaculation. The sperm undergo maturation in the epididymis, a coiled tube next to the testes where they acquire motility and other characteristics essential for fertilization. This maturation takes around 12 days and prepares them for their journey through the male and female reproductive systems. Mature sperm are then stored in the epididymis until the moment they are needed for fertilization.