What is spermatogenesis? Briefly describe the process of spermatogenesis.
Spermatogenesis is the process of the production of sperms from the immature male germ cells. It starts at puberty and usually continues uninterrupted until death, although a slight decrease in the quantity of sperm is seen with increase in age.
Process of Spermatogenesis:
The spermatogonia (2N) present at the inner side of the seminiferous tubules multiply by mitotic divisions and increase in number. They stop undergoing mitosis, grow and become primary spermatocytes (2N). Each primary spermatocyte undergoes meiosis to form two equal haploid secondary spermatocytes (N). Each secondary spermatocyte then undergoes second meiotic division to form four equal haploid cells called spermatids (N). Spermatids receive nourishment to form sperms by the process called spermiogenesis.