Explain the mechanism of spermatogenesis in mammals with suitable diagram?

Spermatogenesis is the intricate process of sperm cell development in mammals, occurring within the seminiferous tubules of the testes.

Key Stages:

1. Spermatogonia:

- These are the initial diploid germ cells that undergo mitosis.

- They differentiate into primary spermatocytes, which are also diploid.

2. Meiosis:

- Primary spermatocytes undergo meiosis I, resulting in two secondary spermatocytes, which are haploid.

- Each secondary spermatocyte then undergoes meiosis II, ultimately forming four haploid spermatids.

3. Spermiogenesis:

- Spermatids undergo significant morphological changes, developing tails and shedding excess cytoplasm to transform into mature spermatozoa.

Diagram: A diagram illustrating these stages would typically depict spermatogonia at the base of the seminiferous tubules, progressing through meiosis to spermatids and finally to spermatozoa.

Conclusion:

Spermatogenesis is essential for male fertility, producing millions of sperm daily, ensuring genetic diversity and successful reproduction (Turek, 2006).