Bilateral vs radial symmetry

General Botany

Radial Symmetry =

Actinomorphic Symmetry

Radial Symmetry:

can be divided into equal halves by multiple planes passing through the center of the flower

Radial Symmetry:

The flower can be divided into equal halves along multiple planes

Radial Symmetry Flower Structure:

All floral parts are typically uniform in arrangement

Radial Symmetry Pollination:

Radial symmetry often attracts a wide range of pollinators since the flower is accessible from all directions.

Bilateral Symmetry =

Zygomorphic Symmetry

Bilateral Symmetry:

can be divided into two equal halves by a single plane. These flowers have a more asymmetrical structure where one side of the flower is a mirror image of the other.

Bilateral Symmetry Flower Structure:

Typically, the flower has an asymmetrical shape, with parts that are differently sized or arranged on one side compared to the other.

Bilateral Symmetry Pollination:

Often linked to specialized pollinators that can interact with the flower in a specific way.