Summary
Production of sperm in the seminiferous tubules by meiosis and differentiation.
In depth
Spermatogonia divide by mitosis, primary spermatocytes undergo meiosis I, secondary spermatocytes meiosis II, producing spermatids that differentiate (spermiogenesis) into sperm over about 74 days. Sertoli cells nurture.
The process is continuous after puberty. Sertoli cells form the blood-testis barrier. Sperm mature in the epididymis.
Remember: millions of sperm are produced daily.
Spermatogenesis takes about 64 to 74 days in the seminiferous tubules. Spermatogonia divide by mitosis to renew stock; some become primary spermatocytes, which undergo meiosis I to give two secondary spermatocytes, and meiosis II to produce four haploid spermatids.
Spermiogenesis then transforms each spermatid into a sperm: the nucleus condenses, the acrosome forms from the Golgi, mitochondria gather in the midpiece and a flagellum grows. Sertoli cells nourish and support the cells, and testosterone and FSH regulate the process; it continues from puberty throughout life. Each division yields four sperm.
Example: a man makes about 100 million sperm a day.
Remember: four functional gametes per meiosis, unlike in females.
Frequently asked questions
What is Spermatogenesis?
Production of sperm in the seminiferous tubules by meiosis and differentiation.
Which area of biology covers Spermatogenesis, and how advanced is it?
Spermatogenesis is one of the 54 topics in Reproduction & Endocrinology. It is rated Intermediate, so it suits learners who already know the core vocabulary. Related topics in this area include Male Reproductive System, Gametes, Oogenesis.
Can you give an example of Spermatogenesis?
Each primary spermatocyte yields four sperm.
What should I learn before Spermatogenesis?
Work through the Beginner topics in Reproduction & Endocrinology first, such as Reproduction, Asexual Reproduction, Sexual Reproduction, then return to Spermatogenesis. Intermediate topics assume the Beginner vocabulary.
What topics are related to Spermatogenesis?
The closest topics to Spermatogenesis are Male Reproductive System, Gametes, Oogenesis, Fertilisation Process. Comparing them side by side is a good way to see how the ideas connect.
How can I check that I understand Spermatogenesis?
Read the summary and the in-depth section, then use the quick check on the interactive lesson for Spermatogenesis. To practise the whole of Reproduction & Endocrinology, use the Reproduction & Endocrinology quiz.
How is Spermatogenesis different from Male Reproductive System?
Spermatogenesis: Production of sperm in the seminiferous tubules by meiosis and differentiation. Male Reproductive System: Testes make sperm and testosterone, with ducts and glands that deliver semen. Read both side by side and note what each one explains.
How should I study Spermatogenesis step by step?
First, read the summary and write the definition in your own words. Second, read the in-depth section and note any example. Third, compare it with Male Reproductive System and explain the difference aloud. Finally, take the Reproduction & Endocrinology quiz and come back to this page for any question you miss.