many of the reproductive structures in males + females r homolgues - they share a common orign during development
homologous structures often have similar functions
e.g. male testes + female ovaries, male penis + female clit
Gonads
the primary sex organs = gonads
= testes in males + ovaries in females
the type of gonad present during embryonic development determines the fate - male/female pattern of development of all of the other developing structures
Common Products of Gonads - Gametes
males produce sperm + females produce ova
gamete formation depends on meiosis
Common Products of Gonads - Sex Hormones
these steroid hormones - mainly testosterone in males, oestorgen + progesterone in females
= play vital roles both in the development + function of the reproductive organs + in sexual behaviour + drives
these hormones also influence the growth + development of many other organs + tissues of the body
Accessory Reproductive Organs
in both males + females, the reamaining reproductive structures - ducts, glands + external genitalia = accessory reproductive organs
