Reproductive system in an organism is a collective system of many individual organs which together helps in reproduction of that particular species. Unlike other body systems, reproductive system is distinctive in its function and determines the organism’s sex. Depending on the type of organs present, reproductive systems is basically divided into male or female reproductive system.
Reproductive system is also called as Genital system. The main function of the reproductive system is to propagate particular progeny and there by to help particular species to maintain over generations. An individual organism may live healthy with out the involvement of reproductive system but it has to have functional reproductive system in order to continue its species over generations. This function of propagation of species can be achieved by several kinds of organs in several phyla or species. In vertebrates the reproductive system is well developed and may be divided into primary, secondary and accessory organs depending on their function.
Four Main Reproductive System Function
Functions of Reproductive system in vertebrates may be broadly divided into following 4 categories
Reproductive system function in producing gametes: Gametes are haploid cells produced by Gonads and carries genetic information which is further transmitted to the next generation after fertilization. In males, gametes are called sperm cells and are produced by testicles. In females, gametes are called as ova and are produced by ovaries.
Reproductive system function in transporting and maintaining viability of gametes: Gametes have to be transported from the site of their production to the site of fertilization in a viable form. In males, sperm cells are transported by vas deferens and in females by fallopian tubes.
Reproductive system function in nurturing developing offspring: Reproductive system produces certain required hormones and nutritious material to nurture growing embryo until its birth
Reproductive system function in hormone production: Reproductive system has to produce certain hormones like Luteinizing hormone, prolactin, to help the growing embryo and facilitation in child birth.
