Pollination & seed dispersal

What is sexual reproduction?

Sexual reproduction happens when two different gametes combine in fertilisation to create a genetically new individual.

What are male and female gametes in humans?

The male gamete is the sperm (haploid 1N = 23), and the female gamete is the ovum (egg). The male gamete is sperm. These fuse to produce a zygote (2N = 46).

What type of cell division produces gametes?

Meiosis

What is a hermaphrodite?

An organism that has both male and female gametes.
E.g.: Worms & plants.

Are offspring from sexual reproduction identical to their parents?

No, they are genetically diverse due to the combination of genes from both parents.

What are the reproductive structures in plants?

Flowers and cones produce male and female gametes.

What are angiosperms?

Flowering plants that reproduce sexually and produce seeds inside flowers.

What is pollination?

The transfer of pollen from the anther to the stigma of a flower to reach the ovules.

What are examples of pollinators?

Bees, insects, birds, small mammals, and wind.

What happens after pollination in angiosperms?

A pollen tube grows through the style to fertilise the embryo, producing a seed.

What is inside a seed?

An embryo, which develops into a seedling after germination in favourable conditions.

How do cone-bearing plants reproduce?

Male cones release pollen grains, which travel to female cones. A pollen tube grows to fertilise the ovule

What is the function of the stigma?

It collects pollen and is waxy or sticky for better pollen capture.

What is the function of the style?

It supports the stigma and connects it to the ovary.

What is the function of the pollen tube?

It transports sperm from the pollen grain to the ovary for fertilisation.

What is the function of the ovary in plants?

It contains ovules, which develop into seeds. The ovary matures into fruit.

What is the function of the anther?

It produces and provides pollen (male gametes).

What is the function of the filament?

It supports the anther, helping it produce pollen.

What is the stamen?

The male reproductive organ of a flower, containing the anther and filament.

What is the function of petals?

They attract pollinators, support, and protect the flower.