Questions and Answers
What is the primary function of Luteinising Hormone in males?
Which hormone is directly responsible for stimulating the synthesis of LH and FSH?
In which animal is the oestrous cycle typically 21 days long?
What is the typical duration of oestrus in the ewe?
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Which hormone is essential for sexual development and male characteristics?
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What is the primary function of the acrosome in a sperm cell?
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Which component of the sperm cell is primarily responsible for energy production?
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In a sperm cell, what is the role of the flagellum?
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What type of cell division results in the formation of a haploid nucleus in sperm?
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Which structure in a sperm cell provides the necessary structural support for its movement?
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What is the main purpose of centrioles found in the midpiece of a sperm cell?
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What is contained within the haploid nucleus of the sperm cell?
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Which of the following best describes the role of mitochondria in sperm cells?
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What role does the cervix play in the reproductive tract of a cow?
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Which hormone is primarily responsible for causing ovulation in cows?
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What is the main function of the oviducts in the cow's reproductive system?
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How long is the gestation period for a cow?
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Which hormone is primarily responsible for maintaining pregnancy in cows?
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What is the major function of the uterus in cow reproduction?
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Which structure is involved in the deposition of sperm during mating in cows?
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What is the primary function of follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) in cows?
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What is a primary benefit of using artificial insemination in bovine animals?
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Which of the following is a disadvantage of artificial insemination?
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How does artificial insemination contribute to disease control in herds?
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What is one of the economic advantages of artificial insemination?
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What potential risk is associated with relying heavily on artificial insemination?
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In terms of costs, what is a disadvantage related to artificial insemination?
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Which characteristic of artificial insemination may pose a challenge in some regions?
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What trait does artificial insemination enhance among bovine herds?
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Study Notes
Male Reproductive Physiology
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Sperm Structure:
- Head: Contains the acrosome for fertilization and a haploid nucleus with condensed DNA.
- Midpiece: Houses centrioles and mitochondria for energy (ATP) production essential for sperm movement.
- Tail (Flagellum): Composed of microtubules facilitating sperm motility.
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Male Hormones and Functions:
- Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH): Stimulates sperm cell production in the testicle.
- Luteinising Hormone (LH): Promotes testosterone production in the testicle.
- Gonadotropin Releasing Hormone (GnRH): Produced by the hypothalamus to stimulate LH and FSH synthesis in the pituitary gland.
- Testosterone: Mediates sexual development, secondary sex characteristics, sperm synthesis, and libido in males.
Female Reproductive Physiology
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Oestrous Cycle in Cows:
- 21-day cycle, polyestrous; oestrus lasts 14 to 24 hours; gestation period is approximately 283 days.
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Oestrous Cycle in Ewes:
- 17-day cycle, seasonally polyestrous; oestrus lasts 24 to 36 hours; gestation lasts about 147 days.
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Oestrous Cycle in Sows:
- 21-day cycle, seasonally polyestrous; oestrus continues for 2 to 3 days; gestation period is roughly 3 months, 3 weeks, and 3 days.
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Cow Reproductive Tract Functions:
- Ovaries: Produce ova and steroid hormones.
- Oviducts: Site for fertilization.
- Uterus: Nourishes and protects the embryo and fetus.
- Cervix: Functions as a barrier to prevent infection.
- Vagina: Allows for sperm deposition and acts as the birth canal.
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Bovine Oestrous Cycle Hormones:
- Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH): Triggers follicular development.
- Luteinizing Hormone (LH): Induces ovulation.
- Progesterone (P4): Supports pregnancy maintenance.
Methods of Fertilisation
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Artificial Insemination (AI):
- Involves manual introduction of bull semen into a cow's reproductive tract to achieve fertilization.
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Advantages of AI:
- Genetic Improvement: Utilizes superior genetics for enhancing herd traits such as milk production and disease resistance.
- Disease Control: Reduces sexually transmitted disease transmission risks compared to natural mating.
- Cost-Effective: Lowers costs associated with maintaining a bull, including feeding and veterinary care.
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Disadvantages of AI:
- Requires Specialized Training: Skilled personnel are necessary for performing AI correctly; availability may vary.
- Higher Initial Costs: Investments in equipment, semen storage, and training can be significant.
- Reduced Genetic Diversity: Dependence on a limited number of bulls may result in decreased genetic diversity and potential inbreeding risks.
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Description
Explore the male reproductive physiology and the structure of sperm through this concise one-page summary. Understand the essential components involved in fertilization and the overall process of animal reproduction.
