Sexual Reproduction in Animals
A few important topics and events from Sexual Reproduction in Animals
Reproductive organs
The male reproductive system consists of the penis, sperm ducts, and two testes. The organs that produce sperm are called the testes. The sperm has a head, middle part and a tail on the sperm. They are extremely small in size. The female reproductive system consists of the uterus, oviducts and two ovaries. Ovum or eggs are produced by the ovaries. The developing baby grows in the uterus. A mature egg is released into the oviduct once a month.
Fertilisation
Fertilisation is the process through which an egg and sperm fuse to form the zygote which is the earliest stage. It can happen inside the body or outside the body. Fertilisation marks the development of a new organism.
Viviparous and Oviparous Animals
Animals are classified into two categories i.e. viviparous or oviparous according to how they reproduce. Giving birth to a young one occurs in viviparous organisms. Animals that are identified as viviparous include mammals like humans. On the other hand, oviparous means laying eggs outside of the mother’s body from which their offspring hatch. Two well-known examples of oviparous organisms are birds and reptiles.
How Animals Reproduce?
Reproduction in animals happens in two ways i.e. sexual or asexual reproduction. Both processes have unique features. Sexual reproduction requires the fusion of male and female gametes whereas only one parent is involved in asexual reproduction. Animals reproduce so that their species can propagate and continue. Some examples of sexual reproduction are humans, flowering plants, etc. A few examples of asexual reproduction are hydras and amoebas.
Table of Content
- What is Reproduction?
- Modes of Reproduction
- Embryo Development
- Sexual Reproduction in Animals
- Asexual Reproduction in Animals
- Characteristics of Asexual Reproduction
- Advantages and Disadvantages Of Asexual Reproduction