Types of Reproduction
- Asexual reproduction: reproduction without gametes (e.g., budding, vegetative propagation, spore formation).
- Sexual reproduction: involves gametes (pollen and ovule) fusion to form zygote.
Flower Structure and Function
- Sepals: protect flower in bud stage.
- Petals: attract pollinators.
- Stamens: male reproductive organ (anther and filament).
- Carpel/Pistil: female reproductive organ (stigma, style, ovary).
Pollination and Fertilization
- Pollination: transfer of pollen from anther to stigma (self or cross pollination).
- Fertilization: fusion of male gamete (pollen) with female gamete (ovule) to form zygote.
- Formation of seed and fruit after fertilization.
Seed Germination
- Germination: process by which a seed develops into a seedling.
- Conditions required: water, oxygen, suitable temperature, sometimes light.
- Types: epigeal (cotyledons above ground) and hypogeal (cotyledons remain underground).
- Process: imbibition → activation of enzymes → growth of radicle → shoot emergence.
Adaptations for Reproduction
- Brightly colored petals to attract pollinators.
- Nectar production for insects and birds.
- Wind pollinated flowers have long stamens and feathery stigma.
- Fruits aid in seed dispersal (wind, water, animals).
Practice Questions
- Define and distinguish between sexual and asexual reproduction. (4 marks)
- Describe the structure and function of stamens and pistil. (5 marks)
- Explain the process of pollination and fertilization in flowering plants. (6 marks)
- List the conditions required for seed germination. (4 marks)
- Short answer: Name one adaptation of flowers for wind pollination. (1 mark)
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