Why is urethra of a male called urinogenital canal?
The male urethra serves dual functions related to reproduction and excretion, hence it's referred to as the urinogenital canal:
Urinary Function: The main purpose of the urethra is to transport urine from the urinary bladder to the outside of the body during urination. It allows the passage of urine from the bladder through the penis.
Reproductive Function: In males, the urethra also plays a role in reproduction. It serves as the pathway for semen to exit the body during ejaculation. Semen, which contains sperm and other fluids necessary for reproduction, is propelled through the urethra during sexual arousal and orgasm.
Therefore, the term "urinogenital canal" reflects the dual functions of the male urethra in both urination and reproduction.