Teaching Notes
Male Reproductive System
1. The Testes are the place where the sperm is made. The sperm is made inside the
testes in a structure called the seminiferous tubules (they are very fine coiled tubes
inside the testes) refer to fig 8.1 page 83 Understanding farm animals J A Sutherland.
The male hormone Testosterone is also made here
2. The testes are held in the Scrotum which hangs outside the body. The reason for
this is that it allows the sperm to develop at a lower temperature. If the sperm
develops at a higher temperature then it becomes infertile. Refer to Understanding
Farm Animals J A Sutherland page 84 for back ground information.
3. The sperm travels from the Seminiferous Tubules into the Epididymis. The
Epididymis is a larger and longer and muscular tube which collects the sperm and
stores it allowing it to mature. The disease Brucellosis occurs when bacteria invade
the Epididymis causing it to swell the result is that the sperm become infected and
therefore infertile. The Epididymis connects with a tube called the Vas Deferens and
it transports the sperm upwards to the Urethra.
4. In the Urethra is a long thin tube which transports the sperm to the penis. Along the
tube are two major glands that produce secretions that mix with the sperm. These
secretions have a special purpose and are essential to allowing the sperm to travel on
its journey.
The Prostrate Gland produces secretions which encourage the sperm to swim. They
need to be active swimmers in order to find the female egg later in the reproductive
process.
The Vesicular Gland is responsible for secreting a nutrient substance. These nutrients
are required to keep the sperm in good condition and provide them with energy while
they travel along the reproductive system.
The sperm mixes with these secretions to become Semen.
5. The Penis is a sensitive organ which is responsible for providing protection to the
Urethra which passes through the centre of the penis. When stimulated the penis
becomes erect and slides easily into the female vagina where the semen is ejaculated.
6. Figure 8.2 Reproductive Organs of the Ram Refer to Understanding Farm Animals
J A Sutherland page 85.
7. Diagram of the Structure of the Testis Refer to Understanding Farm Animals J A
Sutherland page 83
8. Optional Diagram of the sperm. (very similar to small tadpole)Head containing the
genetic material (Chromosomes) Middle piece to provide energy for movement Tail
to assist with swimming