Spermatocytogenesis

Definition
noun
The initial stage of spermatogenesis in which the spermatogonia repeatedly divide by mitosis to produce a continuous supply of identical cells as some of them later develop into primary spermatocytes.
Supplement
The spermatogonia divide repeatedly through mitosis to ensure a supply of spermatogonia. This is because some of them differentiate into producing intermediate cells called primary spermatocytes.
Spermatocytogenesis occurs in the male gonad of sexually reproducing organisms. In humans, it takes place in the basal compartment of seminiferous tubules.
Spermatocytogenesis is the male counterpart of oocytogenesis in females.
Compare: oocytogenesis

See also: spermatogenesis