CHAP. XV. 



REPRODUCTIVE SYSTEM. 



THE organs which we have hitherto been considering, 

 refer exclusively to the individual, and are necessary to 

 the support of the system throughout the whole of life ; 

 those which now claim our attention, do not refer to the 

 wants of the individual, but are subservient to the continua- 

 tion of the species. The instincts by which the organs of 

 reproduction are governed, have been already enumerated, 

 when treating of the active powers of the mind. At pre- 

 sent, it only remains for us to enquire into the different 

 modes by which animals are propagated, and the various 

 organs which are called into exercise in each. 



The simplest mode of generation does not require sexual 

 organs for the accomplishment of its purpose. Part of an 

 individual drops off, and speedily exercises the functions of 

 an independent being. This is termed G eneration by Spon- 

 taneous Division. In other cases, a bud is produced from 

 the surface, which gradually evolves, drops off from the 

 parent when ripe, and begins to exhibit a separate life. 

 This is termed Gemmiparous Generation. 



In those animals which possess peculiar organs for the 

 preparation of the germ or ovum, some are Androgynous*, 

 and either have the sexual organs incorporated, and capa- 

 ble of generating without assistance, or the sexual organs 

 are distinct, and the union of two individuals is necessary 



man-woman. 



