Life: The Science of Biology 11th Edition

Published by W. H. Freeman
ISBN 10: 1-31901-016-4
ISBN 13: 978-1-31901-016-4

Chapter 42 - Animal Reproduction - 42.2 - Sexual Reproduction Involves the Union of Haploid Egg and Sperm - 42.2 Recap - Learning Outcomes - Page 901: 1

Answer

Sperm must penetrate the jelly layer and a proteinaceous vitelline envelope of a sea urchin egg to reach the egg. Many sperm reach the envelope, but only one penetrates the membrane and fertilizes the egg. The acrosomal reaction facilitates penetration by allowing a sea urchin sperm to recognize an egg of the same species. Enzymes released from the egg’s cortical granules stimulate the slow block to polyspermy.

Work Step by Step

Sperm must penetrate the jelly layer and a proteinaceous vitelline envelope of a sea urchin egg to reach the egg. Many sperm reach the envelope, but only one penetrates the membrane and fertilizes the egg. The acrosomal reaction facilitates penetration by allowing a sea urchin sperm to recognize an egg of the same species. Enzymes released from the egg’s cortical granules stimulate the slow block to polyspermy.
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