Write four differences between Spermatogenesis and Oogenesis.
Hint: Spermatogenesis and oogenesis are the processes responsible for producing male and female gametes. Spermatogenesis results in the creation of sperm cells, while oogenesis produces egg cells. The union of a sperm and an egg cell during fertilization forms a zygote, which then develops into an embryo.
Complete answer:
Difference between Spermatogenesis and Oogenesis
|
Spermatogenesis |
Oogenesis |
| The formation of sperm cells from spermatogonia is called spermatogenesis. | The formation of egg cells from oogonia is called oogenesis. |
| Takes place in the testes. | Takes place within the ovary. |
| All phases are completed in the testis. | Most of oogenesis occurs within the ovary, with the final stages taking place in the oviduct. |
| Generates motile gametes. | Generates non-motile gametes. |
| Equal cytokinesis in spermatogenesis leads to the production of four sperm cells. | Unequal cytokinesis in oogenesis results in one egg cell and four polar bodies. |
| Millions of sperm cells are generated daily. | One egg cell is released monthly. |
| Sperms have minimal nutrient storage. | Ova contain substantial stores of nutrients and metabolites. |
Additional Information: Spermatogenesis and oogenesis are the reproductive processes consisting of three stages: multiplication, growth, maturation, and differentiation.
- During these processes, the spermatogonium and oogonium multiply through mitosis, producing spermatocytes and oocytes. These germ cells then undergo meiosis and maturation, leading to spermatids and ootids, which further develop into sperm and ovum, respectively.
- Spermatogenesis takes place within the seminiferous tubules of the testis and spans approximately 70 days.
- Sperm can be stored and retain fertility within the genital ducts for up to 42 days.
- The ovum is enclosed by two additional protective layers — the zona pellucida and the corona radiata.
Note: Human females are born with around a million egg cells in their ovaries. These cells begin maturing at puberty, and no new egg cells are produced after birth.
- A woman’s reproductive phase typically concludes with menopause, around the 50s, due to depletion of ovarian follicles.
- A man’s reproductive phase has no set end, barring conditions that impair sperm production due to illness or disability.
- Occasionally, more than one secondary oocyte is released simultaneously, often resulting in multiple births. This leads to fraternal twins, who are genetically distinct.
