A stamen is the male reproductive organ of a flower, responsible for producing and releasing pollen for pollination. It is one of the essential parts of a flower, along with the pistil, petals, and sepals. The stamens are collectively known as the androecium.
The main components of a stamen are:
- Filament: A long, slender stalk that supports the anther.
- Anther: A two-lobed structure located at the tip of the filament. It contains microsporangia, which produce pollen grains.
Stamens can be arranged in a whorl or spirally, depending on the flower species. They are typically found in the center of the flower, along with the stigma (if present). The number and arrangement of stamens, as well as the way in which the anthers release pollen, are important taxonomic characteristics for many flowering plants.
Some additional features of stamens include:
- Nectaries: Small secretory structures often found at the base of the stamens. They provide food rewards for insect and bird pollinators.
- Sterile stamens: Some flowers may produce stamens that do not produce pollen.
