Double fertilization is a unique process in angiosperms where one sperm fertilizes the egg forming a zygote, and another sperm fuses with two polar nuclei to form the endosperm.
Which plant group exhibits double fertilization?
Angiosperms, or flowering plants, exhibit double fertilization.
What is formed as a result of double fertilization?
As a result of double fertilization, a zygote and endosperm are formed.
What roles do the two sperm cells play in double fertilization?
One sperm cell fertilizes the egg forming a zygote, while the other fuses with two polar nuclei to form the triploid endosperm.
What is the ploidy level of the endosperm formed during double fertilization?
The endosperm has a triploid (3n) ploidy level.
Explain the significance of double fertilization.
Double fertilization ensures efficient seed development by forming both embryo and endosperm simultaneously, optimizing nutrient allocation for seed growth.
How does the endosperm benefit the developing plant embryo?
The endosperm provides nutrition to the developing plant embryo, ensuring its growth and development.
What role does the zygote play post fertilization?
The zygote develops into the plant embryo, which eventually gives rise to a new plant.
What structure in the flower houses the ovule where double fertilization occurs?
The ovary houses the ovule where double fertilization takes place.
Describe the sequence of events in double fertilization starting from pollination.
Pollination leads to pollen tube growth which travels down the style to deliver two sperm cells to the ovule; one fertilizes the egg, and the other fuses with polar nuclei.
How do angiosperms differ from gymnosperms in fertilization?
Angiosperms undergo double fertilization, forming both a zygote and endosperm, whereas gymnosperms do not form endosperm after fertilization.
What adaptations allow for double fertilization in angiosperms?
Adaptations include the development of flowers for attracting pollinators and pollen tubes to deliver sperm to ovules efficiently.
How does the pollen tube function in double fertilization?
The pollen tube grows from the pollen grain down the style to deliver sperm cells directly to the ovule.
What evolutionary advantage does double fertilization provide to flowering plants?
Double fertilization allows efficient resource use for seed development, promoting higher reproductive success.
Identify the result of fertilization between the sperm cell and egg cell in double fertilization.
The fertilization of the sperm cell and egg cell results in the formation of a diploid zygote.