Question

Give reasons why testes descend into the scrotum before birth?

Answer 1

The testes actually develop in the abdominal cavity near the kidneys but migrate to the scrotum shortly before or at the time of birth. Sperm development occurs optimally at temperatures a few degree below the normal body temperature of 37${}^o$C. As scrotum has little or no fatty insulation, it keeps the testes at a temperature cooler than the body temperature. Moreover, a suitable temperature is maintained inside the testes by voluntary movements of the muscles that connect the scrotum to the body wall.