Reproductive system
- Pronunciation
- /ree-PROH-duk-tiv SIS-tem/
- Category
- Anatomy
- Singular
- reproductive system
- Plural
- reproductive systems
Definition
The integrated set of anatomical structures, tissues, and associated secretions responsible for producing , facilitating , and in many , supporting embryonic development. In , this system is typically divided into paired internal ( or ovaries), ducts for gamete transport, and various accessory glands that produce seminal fluid, , or coatings; external genitalia are often highly modified, species-specific structures used for copulation or sperm transfer. The system exhibits profound in most insects and arachnids, with males and females differing in gonad number, duct configuration, and the complexity of associated glands.
Etymology
From Latin re- (again) + producere (to lead forward, bring forth), referring to the of offspring; system from Latin systema (organized whole).
Example
In male (), the reproductive system includes paired , vasa deferentia, seminal vesicles, and prominent accessory glands that produce the proteinaceous , a packaged sperm mass transferred to females during copulation; females possess paired ovaries with polytrophic or telotrophic and a spermatheca for long-term sperm storage.
Synonyms
- genital system
Related Terms
- Gonad
- Ovariole
- spermatheca
- accessory gland
- Spermatophore
- copulatory organ
- Sexual dimorphism
- Oogenesis
- Spermatogenesis
- mating plug
Usage Notes
In entomological literature, "reproductive system" typically encompasses internal organs only, with external genitalia often treated separately under terms like genitalia or terminalia; in arachnology, the distinction is less rigid. The term is sometimes restricted to anatomical structures, with physiological processes (gametogenesis, mating ) discussed separately. Contrast with reproductive tract, which usually refers to the duct system alone. The adjective genital is broader and may include non-reproductive structures of the terminal .