What are the major functions of male accessory ducts and glands?
The male accessory ducts include rete testis, vasa efferentia, epididymis and vas deferens. These ducts store and transport the sperms from the testis to the outside through the urethra.
The male accessory glands include paired seminal vesicles, a prostate and paired bulbourethral glands. Their secretions constitute the seminal plasma which is rich in fructose, calcium and certain enzymes. The secretions of these glands are essential for maturation and motility of sperms. The bulbourethral glands also help in lubrication of the penis. The seminal plasma along with the sperms constitute the semen.
Explanation
This answer covers the two components asked in the question. For accessory ducts, the context clearly states their function is to 'store and transport the sperms from the testis to the outside through urethra.' For accessory glands, the context mentions that their secretions form seminal plasma (rich in fructose, calcium, enzymes), help in sperm maturation and motility, and the bulbourethral glands specifically aid in lubrication. The term 'semen' is formed by seminal plasma plus sperms.
Solution Steps
Step 1: Identify male accessory ducts (rete testis, vasa efferentia, epididymis, vas deferens) and state their function - storage and transport of sperms.
Step 2: Identify male accessory glands (seminal vesicles, prostate, bulbourethral glands) and state their functions - seminal plasma formation, sperm maturation, motility, and lubrication.