What is spermiogenesis?

Spermiogenesis refers specifically to the maturation process of spermatids into fully developed sperm cells. This stage follows spermatogenesis, where spermatogonia differentiate and undergo meiosis to become spermatids. During spermiogenesis, spermatids undergo significant morphological changes, which include the development of a tail, condensation of the nucleus, and the formation of the acrosome, a structure that contains enzymes essential for fertilization. By the end of spermiogenesis, these cells transform into spermatozoa, which are structurally equipped to achieve successful fertilization of an egg.

The other options describe different processes related to male reproduction but do not accurately define spermiogenesis. The formation of sperm from stem cells is a broader term encompassing earlier processes of spermatogenesis. Hormone production in the male body involves different endocrine functions, while sperm fertilization of an egg refers to fertilization, which is a separate event following the completion of spermiogenesis.