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Animal Reproduction exam Flashcards

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Animal Reproduction exam
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  • Spermatogenesis

    The process of sperm production in males, occurring in the seminiferous tubules.
  • What is the primary function of the scrotum?

    To maintain the correct temperature for sperm production by holding the testes outside the body.
  • Oogenesis

    The process of egg production in females, beginning before birth and completing after puberty.
  • What is the role of the corpus luteum?

    It secretes progesterone and some estradiol to maintain the uterine lining and provide negative feedback to FSH and LH.
  • Red Queen Hypothesis

    A theory suggesting that sexual reproduction is favored because it introduces genetic diversity, helping organisms adapt and evolve.
  • What is the function of the epididymis?

    To mature and store sperm, making them motile.
  • Parthenogenesis

    A type of asexual reproduction where growth and development occur without fertilization.
  • What triggers ovulation in the ovarian cycle?

    A spike in luteinizing hormone (LH) caused by maximal estradiol concentrations.
  • Zona Pellucida

    The glycoprotein layer surrounding the plasma membrane of mammalian oocytes.
  • What is the primary function of the placenta?

    To allow the exchange of materials, nutrients, and wastes between the mother and fetus.
  • Seminiferous Tubules

    Coiled structures in the testes where sperm are produced.
  • What is the role of the hormone oxytocin during childbirth?

    It stimulates uterine contractions, which are part of a positive feedback loop to expel the fetus.
  • Menstrual Cycle

    A regular cycle in the female reproductive system involving the ovarian and uterine cycles.
  • What is the function of the acrosome in sperm?

    To release enzymes that help the sperm penetrate the egg's outer layers.
  • Viviparous

    Organisms that give birth to live offspring.
  • What is the significance of the hormone HCG during pregnancy?

    It prevents the degradation of the corpus luteum and halts the menstrual cycle.
  • Leydig Cells

    Cells in the testes that produce testosterone.
  • What is the primary function of the fallopian tubes?

    To transport the ovum from the ovary to the uterus.
  • Endometrium

    The inner epithelial lining of the uterus, which changes with each menstrual cycle.
  • What is the role of the hormone prolactin?

    To stimulate milk production in the mammary glands.
  • Binary Fission

    A type of asexual reproduction where an organism divides into two or more parts, common in bacteria.
  • What is the function of the vas deferens?

    To transport sperm from the epididymis to the urethra.
  • Polar Bodies

    Small haploid cells formed during oogenesis that do not develop into ova.
  • What is the primary function of the hormone FSH in females?

    To stimulate follicle maturation in the ovaries.
  • Gametogenesis

    The process of forming gametes (sperm and eggs) through meiosis.
  • What is the purpose of the cortical reaction during fertilization?

    To prevent polyspermy by changing the egg's membrane chemistry.
  • Sertoli Cells

    Also known as nurse cells, they support and nourish developing sperm cells.
  • What is the function of the hormone LH in males?

    To stimulate Leydig cells to produce testosterone.
  • Blastocyst

    A hollow ball of cells formed from the cleavage of a zygote, specific to mammals.