Spermatogenesis occurs in the testes, specifically within the seminiferous tubules. This complex process is essential for male fertility, as it leads to the production of sperm cells.
During spermatogenesis, diploid germ cells called spermatogonia undergo several stages of division and maturation. Initially, they divide by mitosis to produce primary spermatocytes, which then enter meiosis—a type of cell division that halves the chromosome number.
Meiosis consists of two rounds of division. First, primary spermatocytes undergo the first meiotic division to form secondary spermatocytes, which subsequently divide again to produce haploid spermatids. These spermatids then undergo a transformation process known as spermiogenesis, where they develop into mature spermatozoa.
The entire process of spermatogenesis can take about 64 to 72 days, and it is influenced by various hormones such as testosterone and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH). The testes not only produce sperm but also secrete hormones that are critical for male reproductive health.