What is spermiation?

Spermiation is the process in which mature sperms are released from the Sertoli cells into the seminiferous tubules, from where they later move into the epididymis for storage and further maturation.

Additional Information

• Sperms are the male gametes that fertilize the female gamete (ovum) to form a zygote.
• They are produced inside the testes through a process called spermatogenesis.

Stages of Spermatogenesis

1. Multiplication Phase:
   • Germ cells (diploid) divide by mitosis to form daughter cells.
   • These daughter cells further divide to form spermatogonia (diploid).
   • Two types of spermatogonia are formed:
     • Type A: Act as stem cells and keep dividing to produce more spermatogonia.
     • Type B: Enter the next stage of development.
2. Growth Phase:
   • Type B spermatogonia absorb nutrients and grow in size.
   • At this stage, they are called primary spermatocytes (diploid).
3. Maturation Phase:
   • Primary spermatocytes undergo Meiosis I → form two secondary spermatocytes (haploid).
   • Each secondary spermatocyte undergoes Meiosis II → forms four spermatids (haploid).
   • Spermatids then transform into motile sperms through spermiogenesis (structural changes).

Final Step – Spermiation

• Throughout their development, sperms stay attached to Sertoli cells for nourishment.
• Once fully mature, they are released into the lumen of seminiferous tubules.
• This release is called spermiation.