Which one of the following statements is wrong?[2012M]a)When pollen is...
In over 60 per cent of angiosperms, pollen grains are shed at cell 2-celled stage. In the remaining species the generative cell divides mitotically to give rise to the two male gametes before pollen grains are shed (3-celled stage.)
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Which one of the following statements is wrong?[2012M]a)When pollen is...
Understanding Pollen Development and Double Fertilization
When analyzing the statements regarding pollen and fertilization, it's essential to understand the concepts of pollen development and the fertilization process in plants.
Statement Analysis
- Statement A: When pollen is shed at two-celled stage, double fertilization does not take place.
- This statement is incorrect. In flowering plants, pollen grains can reach the stigma in a two-celled stage, where one cell becomes the tube cell and the other develops into the generative cell. The generative cell eventually divides to form two sperm cells. Double fertilization occurs when one sperm fertilizes the egg and the other fuses with the polar nuclei, forming the triploid endosperm. Thus, double fertilization can and does take place even if the pollen is shed in a two-celled state.
- Statement B: Vegetative cell is larger than generative cell.
- This statement is true. The vegetative cell (or tube cell) is indeed larger than the generative cell.
- Statement C: Pollen grains in some plants remain viable for months.
- This statement is also true. Certain species, like conifers, have pollen grains that can remain viable for extended periods, sometimes months or even years.
- Statement D: Intine is made up of cellulose and pectin.
- This statement is accurate. The intine, which is the inner layer of the pollen wall, is composed of cellulose and pectin.
Conclusion
Based on the analysis, the correct answer is indeed option 'A' since it misrepresents the capability of double fertilization occurring from two-celled pollen. Understanding these concepts helps clarify the reproductive strategies of flowering plants.