Gametogenesis: Gametogenesis is the production of gametes from haploid precursor cells. In animals and higher plants, two morphologically distinct types of gametes are produced (male and female) via distinct differentiation programs. Animals produce a tissue that is dedicated to forming gametes, called the germ line. Individual germline cells are called germ cells. During the process of gametogenesis, a germ cell undergoes meiosis to produce haploid cells that directly develop into gametes. Hence, in animals, meiosis is an integral part of gametogenesis.

Gametogenesis is the process of division of diploid cells to produce new haploid cells. In humans, two different types of gametes are present. Male gametes are called sperm and female gametes are called the ovum.

• Spermatogenesis: It is the process of gametogenesis in males. The process describes the production of spermatozoa or sperm in the seminiferous tubules male reproductive organ.
• Oogenesis: It is the process of gametogenesis in females. The process describes the production of ova (female gamete) within the ovaries. The process starts during the fetal development itself when around 40,000 primordial cells are formed due to mitosis.

Stages of Gametogenesis

The process of gametogenesis occurs in three steps. They are as follows;

• Mitotic divisions along with cell growth of precursor germ cells.

• The occurrence of Meiosis I and Meiosis II for producing haploid daughter cells.

• Differentiating haploid daughter cells for the production of functional gametes. 

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By Team Learning Mantras