Where are sperm created? Where are they stored?

Sperm are created in the testes (specifically in the seminiferous tubules) and are stored in the epididymis until they mature and are ready for ejaculation.

Where Are Sperm Created?

The process of sperm production is called spermatogenesis. It happens inside small coiled tubes in the testes known as seminiferous tubules. The process begins with germ cells called spermatogonia, which divide and mature into fully developed sperm cells.

Steps of Sperm Formation

1. Spermatogonia: Immature germ cells that multiply by mitosis.
2. Primary and Secondary Spermatocytes: Undergo meiosis to reduce chromosome number.
3. Spermatids: Round cells that start forming tails.
4. Spermatozoa: Fully developed sperm with head, midpiece, and tail.

Where Are Sperm Stored?

After formation in the testes, sperm move to the epididymis. The epididymis is a long coiled tube present on the backside of each testis. Here, sperm:

• Mature and gain motility.
• Are stored until ejaculation.
• Remain alive for weeks, nourished by fluids.

Further Transport

During ejaculation, sperm travel from the epididymis to the vas deferens, mix with seminal fluid, and leave through the urethra.