Plant Reproduction
Flowering plants have evolved complex reproductive structures. The male reproductive organs are stamens, which consist of a filament supporting an anther where pollen develops. The female reproductive organ is the pistil, made up of a stigma (which receives pollen), a style (connecting tube), and an ovary containing ovules.
Pollination is the transfer of pollen from anther to stigma, which must occur before fertilization can take place. After fertilization, the zygote develops into an embryo inside a seed. The seed's protective coat and stored nutrients allow plant embryos to survive harsh conditions until they can germinate.
Plants can reproduce in two main ways: asexually or sexually. Asexual reproduction creates genetically identical offspring from a single parent, while sexual reproduction combines genetic material from two parents. Sexual reproduction increases genetic diversity, helping species adapt to changing environments.
Did you know? Many flowers have evolved specific colors, shapes, and scents to attract particular pollinators like bees, butterflies, or hummingbirds. This co-evolution has created some amazing partnerships in nature!