types of pollination

Question 1

what is pollination?

Answer 1

pollination is the transfer of pollen grains from the anther to the stigma.

Question 2

what is self pollination?

Answer 2

self-pollination is the transfer of pollen grains from the anther to the stigma of the same flower/ same plant

Question 3

what is cross-pollination?

Answer 3

cross-pollination is the transfer of pollen grains from ne plant to the stigma of a flower in another plant of the same species.

Question 4

what are the advantages of self-pollination?

Answer 4

1. only one plant is required
2. beneficial qualities more likely passed down to offspring
3. not dependent on external factors
4. higher probability that pollination will occur as stigma is close to anthers
5. less pollen and energy wasted as compared to cross-pollination

Question 5

what are the disadvantages of self-pollination?

Answer 5

1. less genetic variation
2. continues self-pollination may lead to offspring becoming weaker, smaller less resistant to diseases.

Question 6

what are the advantages of cross-pollination?

Answer 6

1. inherit beneficial qualities from both parents
2. greater genetic variation, increasing chance of survival
3. more viable seeds are produced

Question 7

what are the disadvantages of cross-pollination?

Answer 7

1. two parent plants required
2. more energy and pollen wasted as compared to self-pollination
3. dependent on external sources
4. lower probability pollination will occur, as pollen grains have to transfer from the anther of one plant to the stigma of another plant

Question 8

what are the structural adaptations of insect-pollinated flowers?

Answer 8

1. petals: large, brightly coloured to attract insects
2. nectar: present
3. scent: fragrant/sweet-smelling
4. stigma: small/compact
5. stamens; not pendulous/ do not protrude out the flower
6. pollen: larger, rough surface to cling onto body of insects
7. nectar guide; may be present on petals to guide insect to nectar

Question 9

what are the structural adaptations of wind-pollinated flowers?

Answer 9

1. petals: small, dull
2. nectar: absent
3. scent: odourless
4. stigma: large, feathery for large surface area to trap pollen
5. stamens: long pendulous filaments, protruding anthers so pollen grains are easily shaken out
6. pollen: smooth, tiny and light
7. nectar guide: absent