What is the primary role of the epididymis in the male reproductive system?

The primary role of the epididymis is indeed to store and mature sperm. Located on the posterior surface of each testis, the epididymis serves as the site where sperm, produced in the testes, are transported after their initial formation. While sperm are produced in the seminiferous tubules of the testes, they are not yet fully functional at that stage.

Once the sperm enter the epididymis, they undergo a maturation process that can last several days to weeks. During this time, they gain motility and the ability to fertilize an egg. The epididymis also acts as a storage reservoir for mature sperm until ejaculation occurs. This maturation and storage function is critical because it ensures that the sperm are fully developed and capable of successful fertilization when they are eventually ejected during ejaculation.

The other options relate to different functions within the male reproductive system but do not accurately define the primary role of the epididymis. For instance, sperm production occurs in the testes, not the epididymis, while seminal fluid is primarily secreted by accessory glands like the prostate and seminal vesicles. The transport of sperm to the urethra is facilitated by the vas deferens, not the epididym