Horse diploid cells contain 64 chromosomes (2n = 64). How many chromosomes will be present in spermatogonium cells?
Table of contents
- 1. Introduction to Genetics51m
- 2. Mendel's Laws of Inheritance3h 37m
- 3. Extensions to Mendelian Inheritance2h 41m
- 4. Genetic Mapping and Linkage2h 28m
- 5. Genetics of Bacteria and Viruses1h 21m
- 6. Chromosomal Variation1h 48m
- 7. DNA and Chromosome Structure56m
- 8. DNA Replication1h 10m
- 9. Mitosis and Meiosis1h 34m
- 10. Transcription1h 0m
- 11. Translation58m
- 12. Gene Regulation in Prokaryotes1h 19m
- 13. Gene Regulation in Eukaryotes44m
- 14. Genetic Control of Development44m
- 15. Genomes and Genomics1h 50m
- 16. Transposable Elements47m
- 17. Mutation, Repair, and Recombination1h 6m
- 18. Molecular Genetic Tools19m
- 19. Cancer Genetics29m
- 20. Quantitative Genetics1h 26m
- 21. Population Genetics50m
- 22. Evolutionary Genetics29m
9. Mitosis and Meiosis
Development of Animal Gametes
Problem 13
Textbook Question
Contrast spermatogenesis and oogenesis. What is the significance of the formation of polar bodies?

1
Understand the processes of spermatogenesis and oogenesis: Spermatogenesis occurs in the testes and produces four functional sperm cells from one spermatogonium. Oogenesis occurs in the ovaries and produces one functional ovum and three polar bodies from one oogonium.
Compare the division process: Spermatogenesis involves symmetrical divisions during meiosis, resulting in equal-sized sperm cells. Oogenesis involves asymmetrical divisions, where most of the cytoplasm is retained in one cell (the ovum) while the other cells (polar bodies) receive minimal cytoplasm.
Explain the significance of polar bodies: Polar bodies are formed to ensure that the ovum retains the majority of the cytoplasm, which is essential for early embryonic development. This cytoplasm contains nutrients and organelles necessary for the zygote's growth.
Discuss the genetic implications: Both spermatogenesis and oogenesis ensure the haploid chromosome number in gametes, but oogenesis prioritizes quality (a single, well-prepared ovum) over quantity, while spermatogenesis produces numerous sperm for increased chances of fertilization.
Highlight evolutionary significance: The formation of polar bodies and the retention of cytoplasm in the ovum reflect an adaptation to maximize the resources available for the developing embryo, ensuring higher chances of survival post-fertilization.

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Key Concepts
Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.
Spermatogenesis
Spermatogenesis is the process of sperm cell development in males, occurring in the testes. It involves the transformation of spermatogonia into mature spermatozoa through several stages, including mitosis, meiosis, and spermiogenesis. This process results in four viable sperm cells from each precursor cell, ensuring a continuous supply of sperm for reproduction.
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Oogenesis
Oogenesis is the process of egg cell development in females, taking place in the ovaries. Unlike spermatogenesis, oogenesis results in the formation of one mature ovum and typically three polar bodies from each precursor cell. The polar bodies are small cells that usually degenerate, allowing the ovum to receive the majority of the cytoplasm and nutrients necessary for early development.
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Significance of Polar Bodies
Polar bodies are byproducts of oogenesis that serve to discard excess genetic material during the formation of the ovum. Their formation is significant as it ensures that the mature egg has the optimal amount of cytoplasm and organelles, which are crucial for supporting early embryonic development. This unequal division of resources highlights the differences in gamete production between males and females.
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