What is correct about self-incompatibility?a)It is due to the non-syn...
Self-incompatibility is a genetic mechanism and prevents self-pollen (from the same flower or other flowers of the same plant) from fertilising the ovules by inhibiting pollen germination or pollen tube growth in the pistil.
What is correct about self-incompatibility?a)It is due to the non-syn...
Genetic Mechanism of Self-Incompatibility
Self-incompatibility is a genetic mechanism that prevents self-fertilization in plants. It involves the recognition and rejection of self-pollen to promote outcrossing, which increases genetic diversity within a population.
Recognition of Self-Pollen
Plants have a genetic system that allows them to distinguish between self and non-self pollen. This recognition process occurs at the molecular level, where specific proteins on the pollen grain interact with proteins on the stigma of the same plant. If the proteins are too similar, the pollen is rejected.
Mechanism of Action
When self-pollen lands on the stigma of a plant that exhibits self-incompatibility, a series of biochemical reactions are triggered, leading to the inhibition of pollen tube growth. This prevents fertilization from occurring, ensuring that only compatible pollen can successfully fertilize the ovule.
Benefits of Self-Incompatibility
Self-incompatibility promotes genetic diversity within a plant population by encouraging outcrossing. This genetic diversity increases the chances of survival and adaptation to changing environmental conditions.
Conclusion
Self-incompatibility is a vital genetic mechanism in plants that plays a crucial role in promoting outcrossing and maintaining genetic diversity. By preventing self-fertilization, plants ensure the health and adaptability of their populations over time.
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