Alan Dixson: Center for Reproduction of Endangered Species, Zoological Society of San Diego

This talk focuses upon the structure and functions of the reproductive organs of mammals, as viewed from the perspective of sexual selection and sperm competition. The living collections of the Zoological Society of San Diego contain many rare and unusual species; valuable anatomical material becomes available whenever necropsies are performed. Comparative studies have allowed us to demonstrate effects of sexual selection upon sperm morphology, structure of the vas deferens, accessory sexual glands, and oviductal morphology in a variety of mammals. Inclusion of measurements of the human reproductive system in these studies has also provided some useful insights into the evolution of human sexuality.