Seeking Art in Science
Shuwa Xu / Princeton University Art of Science Competition
Separating Sperms
Sperm cells begin as bundles of interconnected cells, shown here as masses of flowing green strands. Structures called "individualization complexes" the three red clusters enable sperm to separate from each other and develop into individual cells. In the final stage of spermatogenesis, the individualization complexes travel along the sperm bundles (from right to left in this image), leaving fully formed mature sperm in their wake; you can see them just to the right of the red structures.
Get the Latest Photos from Time.com
Get TIME photos and pictures of the week delivered directly to your inbox.