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Evolution of the Vertebrate Epididymis

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Book cover The Epididymis: From Molecules to Clinical Practice

Abstract

This chapter examines the structure and function of the extratesticular sperm ducts of vertebrates in terms of their evolutionary development and adaptive significance. Although there is a growing knowledge of these ducts in mammals, our knowledge of other vertebrates is poor. Knowledge of the embryology is insufficient, there is no consistent terminology for the ducts among vertebrates (Jones, 1989), and there is little understanding of the role of these ducts in vertebrate evolution. In order to develop a better understanding of the duct system, this review assesses the relationship of the duct system among the vertebrate classes, their regulation, and the biological significance of the system. The diversity of structure within each vertebrate class is indicated, but it is not possible in this book to provide a comprehensive accounting.

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  1. Department of Biological Sciences, University of Newcastle, Newcastle, NSW, 2308, Australia

    R. C. Jones

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  1. McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada

    Bernard Robaire

  2. University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA

    Barry T. Hinton

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Jones, R.C. (2002). Evolution of the Vertebrate Epididymis. In: Robaire, B., Hinton, B.T. (eds) The Epididymis: From Molecules to Clinical Practice. Springer, Boston, MA. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-4615-0679-9_2

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