Lecture Notes on Flower Structure and Sexual Reproduction in Angiosperms

This set of flashcards covers key vocabulary related to the structure and function of flowers in angiosperms, focusing on sexual reproduction and various components of flowers.

Angiosperms

A group of flowering plants that reproduce sexually, featuring structures like flowers and fruits.

Androecium

The male reproductive part of a flower, consisting of stamens.

Gynoecium

The female reproductive part of a flower, consisting of carpels.

Filament

The long, slender stalk of a stamen, supporting the anther.

Anther

The terminal portion of a stamen where pollen is produced.

Microsporangium

A structure within an anther that develops into pollen sacs.

Pollen Grain

The male gametophyte that is produced in the microsporangia and released during dehiscence of the anther.

Microsporogenesis

The process through which microspore mother cells undergo meiosis to form microspore tetrads.

Sporopollenin

A resilient organic material that makes up the outer layer (exine) of the pollen grain.

Germ Pores

Apertures on the pollen grain's exine where sporopollenin is absent, allowing for pollen tube formation.

Viability of Pollen Grains

The period during which pollen grains can remain viable after shedding, varying significantly among species.

Stigma

The part of the flower where pollen lands and germinates to lead to fertilization.

Tapetum

The innermost layer of the anther wall, responsible for nourishing developing pollen grains.

Dehiscence

The process by which anther opens to release pollen grains.

Pollen Allergy

An adverse reaction some people experience upon exposure to pollen grains, leading to respiratory disorders.

Floriculture

The cultivation and management of flowering plants for ornamental purposes.