PHYSL210B Lecture Notes - Lecture 9: Barr Body, Y Chromosome, Anterior Pituitary
6 Mar 2019
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Document Summary
Humans are one of the only species have sex for pleasure. Human females are sexually receptive after fertile period. Females of other species are sexually receptive during some periods. Internal fertilization: ensures greatest chance of reproductive success by permitting sperm to remain in aqueous environment. As mammals, we have internal fetal development, because the foetus needs to be protected from being dehydrated and it needs to be cushioned against any physical forces. That means males and females are physically different. Sex hormones can alter the behaviour of sexually mature individuals. The embryo brain is also exposed to sex hormones in the womb. We want to produce robust offspring because stronger offspring increase success of the species. Reproduction is important for the survival of a species but is not essential for individual survival. Importance of reproduction lies in integration of parental chromosomes. More genetic variation increases the adaptation ability of the species. Nervous system between brain and reproductive organs.
