What are Gametes?

Gametes are the fundamental units of sexual reproduction. They are haploid, containing one set of chromosomes, whereas somatic cells are diploid.

Gametes are formed via meiosis. In animals, oogenesis produces ova in ovaries, and spermatogenesis produces spermatozoa in testes. Recombination during meiosis ensures genetic diversity.

The evolution of anisogamy-where gametes differ in size-is a key driver of sexual selection. Understanding these processes is vital for genetics and medicine.

Eduard Strasburger coined the term in 1878. Modern research now explores 'artificial gametes' derived from stem cells for potential medical and reproductive applications.

Plant reproduction involves alternation of generations, where gametes are produced by multicellular gametophytes. Some plant sperm, like those in cycads, possess thousands of flagella.