Structure of ovum

Structure of ovum

Human ovum is non-cleidoic, alecithal and microscopic in nature. (Fig. 2.8 (b)). Its cytoplasm called ooplasm contains a large nucleus called the germinal vesicle. The ovum is surrounded by three coverings namely an inner thin transparent vitelline membrane, middle thick zona pellucida and outer thick coat of follicular cells called corona radiata. Between the vitelline membrane and zona pellucida is a narrow perivitelline space.