Fertilisation in plants refers to the process of union of the male and female gametes to form a zygote, which develops into an embryo and eventually a seed or fruit.
Types of fertilisation in plants:
1. Self-fertilisation: It occurs when the pollen from a flower's anther fertilises the same flower's stigma or another flower on the same plant.
2. Cross-fertilisation: It occurs when the pollen from the anther of one flower fertilises the stigma of another flower on a different plant.
Stages of fertilisation in plants:
1. Pollination: The transfer of pollen grains from the anther to the stigma either through wind, insects, or other external agents.
2. Germination of pollen grain: The pollen grain germinates on the stigma and produces a pollen tube.
3. Pollen tube growth: The pollen tube grows through the style towards the ovary.
4. Double fertilisation: The pollen tube enters the ovule through the micropyle and releases two sperm cells. One sperm cell fuses with the egg cell to form a zygote, while the other sperm cell fuses with the two polar nuclei to form the endosperm nucleus.
5. Embryo development: The zygote develops into an embryo, and the endosperm develops into nutritive tissue for the embryo.
Factors of fertilisation in plants:
1. Pollen viability and germination: The pollen grain must be viable and capable of germination for successful fertilisation.
2. Pollinator availability: Plants that rely on pollinators for fertilisation require the presence of appropriate pollinators.
3. Compatibility between male and female parts: The pollen should be compatible with the stigma for successful fertilisation to occur.
4. Environmental conditions: Optimal temperature, humidity, and lighting conditions can influence the success of fertilisation.
5. Presence of obstacles: Physical barriers, such as the presence of incompatible pollen or blockages in the reproductive structures, can hinder successful fertilisation.
What is fertilisation in plants?
Types of fertilisation in plants?
Stages of fertilisation in plants?
Factors of fertilisation in plants?
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