Question

What are accessory glands? Write briefly their role in reproduction.

Answer 1

Accessory glands:

1. The glands which are not involved directly in the production of male gametes or sperm cells but whose secretions help in the process of reproduction are called as accessory glands.

Types of accessory glands and functions:

Seminal vesicles:

1. They are the paired glands which exist as muscular pouches and are connected to the vas deferens to form ejaculatory ducts
2. Their secretions include an alkaline fluid which is white in color contributing to the majority of the semen content.
3. The secretions of the seminal vesicles being alkaline help in neutralizing the acidic environment prevalent in the urethra of males and the genital tract of females.
4. It is also involved in the activation of sperm cells.

Prostate gland:

1. It is a large gland which is present around the urethra.
2. It opens into the urethra through special ducts.
3. The alkaline secretion of the prostate gland increases the viability and mobility of sperms.

Cowper's glands/Bulbourethral glands:

1. They are paired glands located below the prostate gland and remain attached to the membranous part of the urethra.
2. They are connected to the urethra by means of special ducts.
3. They produce an alkaline mucus that lubricates the urethra.
4. The alkaline nature of the mucus neutralizes the acidic environment in the urethra.