Question

How does gamete maturation differ in the male and female?

Short answer

Male gamete maturation, that takes place in the testes, is a continuous process from puberty throughout life. In contrast, female gamete maturation begins before birth with the mature ovum being produced during each menstrual cycle from puberty until menopause.

Step-by-step solution

Understanding Gamete Maturation in Males

In males, gamete maturation occurs in two major steps. The precursor male germ cells are developed in the testes where they undergo meiosis to produce haploid spermatozoa. The process occurs in a continuous manner from puberty throughout life.

Understanding Gamete Maturation in Females

In females, the process begins before birth where primordial cells are developed into oogonia. At puberty, one oocyte matures during each menstrual cycle. The oocyte then undergoes meiosis to produce one mature ovum and polar bodies.