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gamete |
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gameteCell that functions in sexual reproduction by merging with another gamete to form a zygote. Examples of gametes include sperm and egg cells. In most organisms, the gametes are haploid (they contain half the number of chromosomes of the parent), owing to reduction division or meiosis. In higher organisms, gametes are of two distinct types: large immobile ones known as eggs or egg cells (see ovum) and small ones known as sperm. They come together at fertilization. In some lower organisms the gametes are all the same, or they may belong to different mating strains but have no obvious differences in size or appearance. How to thank TFD for its existence? Tell a friend about us, add a link to this page, add the site to iGoogle, or visit webmaster's page for free fun content. |
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In 2000, he came up with the novel idea of replacing the test tube used for in vitro fertilisation by a permeable capsule, inserted in the mother's uterus, so that gametes (spermatozoa, ovules) and/or embryos would develop under more natural conditions, in vivo. IVF is of two kinds: heterologous, fusion of gametes of at least one donor other than the married spouses, and homologous, IVF between husband and wife. Among the animals that are simultaneously male and female, Michiels distinguishes between hermaphrodites where partners make contact to achieve internal fertilization and those in which at least one of the partners releases a cloud of gametes, so the partners don't themselves make physical contact. |
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