Self-Pollination and Cross-Pollination
Self-pollination and cross-pollination are two different methods of pollination in plants. Heres a concise explanation of each:
Self-Pollination
- Definition: Self-pollination occurs when the pollen from the anther is deposited on the stigma of the same flower or another flower on the same plant.
- Process: It can occur in flowers where the stamen and carpel mature at the same time and are positioned so that the pollen can land on the flowers stigma.
- Examples: Self-pollination can be observed in various plants such as orchids, sunflowers, peas, peanuts, oats, peaches, potatoes, and wheat.
Cross-Pollination
- Definition: Cross-pollination is the transfer of pollen from the anther of one flower to the stigma of another flower on a different individual of the same species.
- Process: It leads to greater genetic diversity because the male and female gametophytes are derived from different plants.
- Examples: Cross-pollination is observed in plants like apples, daffodils, pumpkins, and grasses.
In summary, self-pollination occurs within the same flower or between flowers on the same plant, while cross-pollination involves the transfer of pollen between flowers on different plants, leading to greater genetic diversity.
