What is the primary function of an ovule in plants?
The primary function of an ovule is to develop into a seed upon fertilization. It houses the female gametophyte and the egg cell.
Name the two main parts of an ovule.
The two main parts of an ovule are the integuments and the nucellus.
What is the function of the integuments in an ovule?
Integuments protect the nucellus and later develop into the seed coat after fertilization.
What role does the nucellus play in the ovule?
The nucellus provides nutrients and protects the developing female gametophyte.
What is the micropyle in an ovule?
The micropyle is the small opening in the integuments of the ovule that allows for pollen tube entry and fertilization.
Describe the role of the funiculus in an ovule.
The funiculus attaches the ovule to the ovary, supplying nutrients and anchoring the ovule.
How many integuments are typically found in an ovule?
Most ovules have one to two integuments.
What is a megaspore mother cell?
A megaspore mother cell is a diploid cell in the nucellus that undergoes meiosis to produce megaspores, one of which will develop into the female gametophyte.
What is the purpose of the chalaza in an ovule?
The chalaza is the region where the nucellus and integuments merge and serves as a nutrient transport zone.
How does fertilization occur inside the ovule?
Fertilization occurs when a pollen tube enters through the micropyle and releases sperm cells, one of which fertilizes the egg cell in the embryo sac.
What is the role of the embryo sac in an ovule?
The embryo sac contains the egg cell and serves as the location for fertilization and initial stages of seed development.
How do ovules differ between gymnosperms and angiosperms?
Gymnosperms have exposed ovules on cones, while angiosperms have enclosed ovules within a fruiting ovary.
What is double fertilization in relation to ovules?
Double fertilization is the process where one sperm cell fertilizes the egg and another fertilizes two polar nuclei to form endosperm.
What changes occur to the ovule post-fertilization?
Post-fertilization, the ovule develops into a seed, with integuments forming the seed coat and the zygote growing into an embryo.
What is the role of the antipodal cells in an ovule?
Antipodal cells are involved in nourishing the embryo sac, although their exact role varies.