How do animals reproduce sexually?

Sexual reproduction in animals involves the fusion of two gametes, or sex cells, from different individuals. This process typically begins with the production of specialized reproductive cells called gametes, which can be eggs (in females) or sperm (in males). Animals have various strategies to bring these gametes together. External fertilization occurs when both eggs and sperm are released into the environment, often in water, where they meet and fuse. Internal fertilization, on the other hand, involves the transfer of sperm from the male to the female's reproductive organs, where fertilization takes place internally. Some animals, such as birds, reptiles, and mammals, engage in copulation, a direct transfer of sperm from the male to the female during sexual intercourse. Overall, sexual reproduction in animals is a diverse and fascinating process that contributes to genetic diversity and evolutionary adaptation.

This mind map was published on 28 October 2023 and has been viewed 81 times.