Which part of the flower receives pollen grains during pollination?
The correct answer and explanation is:
The part of the flower that receives pollen grains during pollination is the stigma, which is the top part of the pistil (the female reproductive organ of the flower).
Pollination is the process where pollen from the male part of a flower (the anther) is transferred to the female part (the stigma). The stigma is sticky or feathery to facilitate the capture and adhesion of pollen. Once the pollen lands on the stigma, it travels down the style (a tube connecting the stigma to the ovary) and reaches the ovary, where fertilization occurs. The fertilized ovules in the ovary develop into seeds, which can eventually grow into new plants.
Pollination can occur in several ways, including wind, water, insects, and animals. Insects like bees are especially important for pollination, as they transfer pollen between flowers while collecting nectar. The sticky nature of the stigma ensures that pollen adheres to it, even during these transfers.
Once the pollen grain reaches the stigma, it germinates, forming a pollen tube that grows down through the style toward the ovary. This is an essential step in the fertilization process, as it allows the male gamete (sperm cell) to meet the female gamete (egg cell) inside the ovary. The fertilization results in the development of seeds, which, over time, can grow into new plants. The stigma’s design is thus crucial for the reproductive success of flowering plants.
In summary, the stigma plays a vital role in capturing pollen and initiating the process of fertilization, leading to seed production and the continuation of plant species.