The corona radiata and zona pellucida are both layers of the egg (ovum) but serve different functions:
- The corona radiata is a layer of follicular cells that surround the egg, providing protection and nutrients.
- The zona pellucida is a glycoprotein layer that surrounds the egg, playing a critical role in fertilization by binding sperm and preventing polyspermy.
Thus, they are both layers of the ovum but have distinct roles in the reproductive process.