Structure of Testes Testicles

Structure of Testes

 Male reproductive system consists of a pair of testes, accessory ducts and an external genitalia.

A pair of testes present outside the body in a pouch, called scrotum. Scrotum helps in maintaining low temperature of the testes for the process of spermatogenesis.

Spermatogenesis is process of formation of sperm. 

Shape – oval 

Size – 4-5 cm in length and 2-3 cm in width 

Testes are surrounded by 3 layers

Tunica vaginalis – Outer covering.

Tunica albuginea – Situated below tunica vaginalis.

Tunica vasculosa – Situated below tunica albuginea.

Each testes have nearly 250 compartments, called testicular lobules.
Each lobule has 2-3 seminiferous tubule where sperm are produced.

Outer space of seminiferous tubule, called interstitial space which contains interstitial cells or leydig cells. These cells are produce testicular hormone known as androgen (male hormone).

These seminiferous tubule are lined with two types of cells- 

Spermatogonia or male germ cells – these cells undergoes meiotic division, results in formation of sperms.

Sertoli cells – provides nutrition to male germ cells. 

Function

• Produce testicular hormone known as androgens (male hormone).
• Formation of sperms.