The cells produced by the testes and ovaries are referred to as germ cells, specifically spermatozoa in the testes and ova in the ovaries. These germ cells are essential for sexual reproduction.
In males, the testes produce sperm through a process called spermatogenesis. This involves numerous stages of development where germ cells undergo division and maturation, ultimately resulting in mature sperm cells. Each sperm is capable of fertilizing an egg, which is critical for the continuation of species.
In females, the ovaries produce eggs or ova through a process known as oogenesis. This process also involves several stages, resulting in the release of a mature egg during the menstrual cycle. Unlike sperm, females typically produce a finite number of eggs in their lifetime, which are stored in the ovaries until they are either fertilized or degenerate.
Both types of cells are vital for reproduction: sperm carry the male genetic material, while ova contain the female genetic material. When a sperm successfully fertilizes an egg, it initiates the development of a new organism.