Definition
noun, plural: spermatozoa
A mature male gamete or reproductive cell; sperm cell.
Supplement
A single sperm cell or spermatozoon consists of a round or cylindrical nucleated cell, a short neck, and a thin motile tail. Its structure is vital to its mobility and function (i.e. sexual reproduction). The compacted nucleus contains half of the genetic information. It fuses with an ovum (the female gamete) to form a zygote. In mammals, the sex is determined by the sperm cell. If it bears Y chromosome, the resulting offspring is a male. If X chromosome, the offspring is a female.
Word origin: Greek, from sperma, spermat-, seed + New Latin –zōon, from Greek zōion, zōon, living being.
Related forms: spermatozoal, spermatozoic (adjective).
Variant: spermatozoan.
Also called: sperm cell, zoosperm.
Dictionary > Spermatozoon
You will also like...
Genetic Information and Protein Synthesis
Genes are expressed through the process of protein synthesis. This elaborate tutorial provides an in-depth review of the..
Freshwater Communities & Lentic Waters
Lentic or still water communities can vary greatly in appearance -- from a small temporary puddle to a large lake. The s..
Protein Variety
The sequence of amino acids determines the type of protein. Protein is synthesized according to the sequence of nucleoti..
Biological Viruses
Viruses possess both living and non-living characteristics. This unique feature distinguishes them from other organisms...
Animal Water Regulation
Animals adapt to their environment in aspects of anatomy, physiology, and behavior. This tutorial will help you understa..
Bryophytes
Bryophytes (nonvascular plants) are a plant group characterized by lacking vascular tissues. They include the mosses, th..