What are the major functions of male accessory ducts and glands?
Explanation A) The accessory duct system: The rete testis leads from the seminiferous tubules to the vasa efferentia. The vasa efferentia exits the testes to open into the epididymis. The epididymis reaches the vas deferens. A duct is received from the seminal vesicle which ends in the urethra as a common ejaculatory duct. The purpose of these ducts is the storage and transportation of the sperms. B) The accessory glands: It comprises the seminal vesicles, a prostate and bulbourethral glands. The seminal vesicles produce molecules like fructose which are responsible for providing energy to the sperm for mobility. The prostate gland provides fluids for nourishment of the sperm. The bulbourethral glands are also known as the Cowper’s glands. They produce a substance that provides lubrication to the urethra and neutralizes acidity. Final Answer A) The accessory duct system: The rete testis is responsible for the storage of the sperm. The vasa efferentia conducts the sperm from the rete testis to the epididymis. The epididymis provides the storage, nutrition and maturation of the sperm. The final duct, the vasa deferentia, conducts the sperm to the urethra. B) The accessory glands: The seminal vesicles provide activation to the sperms and help in the contraction of the vagina. The prostate gland causes activation of the sperm. It also helps in neutralizing the acidity of the urine. The mucus from the Cowper’s gland provides lubrication to the penis.
