The fourth and innermost Layer called the tapetum nourish developing pollen grains. it contains cells with dense cytoplasm and more than one nuclei. A sparogenous tissue accopies the centre of each microsporangium in a young anther..

**Tissue that Nourishes the Pollen Mother Cell**

The tissue that nourishes the pollen mother cell is known as the tapetum. The tapetum is a specialized layer of cells found in the anther, which is the male reproductive organ of the flower. It plays a crucial role in the development and maturation of pollen grains.

**Structure and Location of Tapetum:**

The tapetum is located in the innermost layer of the anther wall, called the sporogenous tissue. It surrounds the developing microspore mother cells, also known as the pollen mother cells. The tapetum is composed of a single layer of cells that are rich in cytoplasm, nutrients, and organelles.

**Functions of Tapetum:**

The tapetum performs several important functions to ensure the successful development of pollen grains. These functions can be summarized as follows:

1. **Nourishment:** The tapetum provides essential nutrients, such as carbohydrates, proteins, lipids, and minerals, to the developing pollen grains. These nutrients are synthesized by the tapetum cells and transported to the developing microspores through plasmodesmata, which are small channels that connect adjacent cells.

2. **Provision of Enzymes:** The tapetum produces and secretes various enzymes that are required for the development and maturation of pollen grains. These enzymes play a vital role in the synthesis of cell wall components, lipids, and proteins, which are essential for pollen development.

3. **Degradation of Organelles:** During the later stages of pollen development, the tapetum undergoes programmed cell death. This process involves the degradation of tapetal cells, including their organelles. The tapetum releases enzymes that break down the tapetal components, which are then absorbed by the developing pollen grains. This degradation process provides the necessary building blocks for pollen wall formation.

4. **Pollen Coat Formation:** The tapetum also contributes to the formation of the pollen coat, which is the outermost layer of the pollen grain. The tapetum supplies lipids and proteins that are used in the formation of the pollen coat, providing protection and aiding in pollen dispersal.

In conclusion, the tapetum is a crucial tissue that nourishes the pollen mother cells. It provides nutrients, enzymes, and building blocks required for the development and maturation of pollen grains. The tapetum's role in pollen coat formation and programmed cell death further highlights its significance in the reproductive process of flowering plants.