Fertilization in Plants

Fertilization is the process in which male and female gametes fuse to form a zygote, which develops into a new individual. In plants, fertilization is a crucial step in the reproductive process and involves the fusion of the male gamete or pollen with the female gamete or ovule. Let's understand the process of fertilization in plants in detail.

1. Pollination:
Pollination is the transfer of pollen grains from the anther to the stigma of the same or a different flower. It can occur through various means such as wind, water, insects, birds, or other animals. Once the pollen grain reaches the stigma, it undergoes germination and develops a pollen tube.

2. Germination of Pollen Grain:
After landing on the stigma, the pollen grain absorbs moisture and germinates. The pollen tube starts growing out of the pollen grain towards the ovary. The tube nucleus and generative nucleus are present inside the pollen tube.

3. Growth of Pollen Tube:
The pollen tube grows through the style and reaches the ovary. It provides a pathway for the male gametes to reach the female gametes present in the ovule. The generative nucleus divides to form two male gametes.

4. Double Fertilization:
When the pollen tube reaches the ovule, it enters through the micropyle and releases the two male gametes. One male gamete fuses with the egg cell present in the ovule and forms a zygote. This process is called syngamy and results in the formation of a diploid zygote.

Simultaneously, the other male gamete fuses with the two polar nuclei present in the ovule's central cell. This fusion results in the formation of a triploid primary endosperm nucleus. This process is known as triple fusion.

5. Zygote and Embryo Formation:
The zygote develops into an embryo, which is the young plant in the early stage of development. The primary endosperm nucleus divides repeatedly to form the endosperm, which provides nourishment to the developing embryo.

6. Seed Formation:
The ovule matures into a seed, which contains the embryo and the endosperm. The ovary develops into a fruit, protecting the seed and aiding in its dispersal.

Conclusion:
Fertilization in plants is a complex process involving pollination, pollen tube growth, double fertilization, embryo formation, and seed development. This process ensures the continuation of the plant species and the production of new individuals.

The fusion of male and female gamete is called fertilization