Gamete Size

Topic

Gamete size refers to the physical dimensions of reproductive cells, which can be equal (isogamy) or unequal (anisogamy) between mating types. In anisogamous species, the evolution of gamete size dimorphism establishes the fundamental biological distinction between the sexes, where males produce smaller, highly numerous gametes (sperm) and females produce larger, nutrient-rich gametes (eggs). This variation in size is driven by evolutionary trade-offs between numerical competition and zygote provisioning.