Question

What are the major functions of male accessory ducts and glands.

Answer 1

Hint: The male reproductive system consists of penis, urethra, male accessory glands and ducts. The accessory glands and ducts are involved in secretion of various fluids and hormones.

Complete Answer:
The male accessory ducts serve to store spermatozoa and to transport them outside the urethra during ejaculation. Seminal vesicle secretion accounts for 60% of seminal plasma and adds alkaline pH, fructose (a nutrient), mucus and coagulating and local acting enzymes. Prostate gland secretions account for 30% of plasma and add citrate calcium and a proteolytic enzyme termed as prostate-specific antigen. Secretion from Cowper gland adds only a small volume.

Vasa efferentia, epididymis, vas deferens, and rete testis are the male accessory ducts and they play an important role in the transport and temporary storage of sperms.

Male accessory glands are seminal vesicles, prostate glands, and bulbourethral glands. Their function are,
- These glands secrete fluids that lubricate the reproductive system and sperms.
- The sperms get dispersed in the fluid which makes their transportation into the female body easier.
- The fluid is rich in fructose, ascorbic acid, and certain enzymes. They also provide nutrients and activate the sperm.

Note: The function of other parts of male reproductive system are,
1. Urethra - It is a tube like structure and connects urinary meatus and urinary bladder. It helps in ejaculation of semen.
2. Testes - They are oval bodies and are involved in production of sperms and testosterone.
3. Scrotum - It is a layer of thick skin which protects the testes.
4. Penis - It is a cylindrical in shape and is made up of erectile tissues.