Definition of Gametogenesis Gametogenesis: The development and
production of the male and female germ cells required to form a
new individual. The male and female germ cells are called
gametes. The gametes in human males are produced by the testes,
two globe-shaped reproductive organs just below the penis. Male
gametes are what most people refer to as sperm. Gametes in human
females are produced by the ovaries, two oblong organs on each
side of the uterus in the lower abdomen. Female gametes are what
most people refer to as eggs or ova. During sexual intercourse,
an ejaculated sperm cell penetrates an egg and unites with it
(fertilizes it). The fertilized egg is called the zygote. The
reproductive organs in both males and females (testes and
ovaries, respectively) begin gametogenesis with a primitive germ
cell. A primitive germ cell is a seed cell. Like a seed planted
in a garden, a primitive germ cell initiates the process that
eventually results in a new being. The primitive germ cell
contains 46 pairs of c