The process of fusion of male and female gametes ( to form a zygote ) is called fertilisation

Fertilization

Fertilization is the process in which the male gamete (pollen) fuses with the female gamete (ovule) to form a zygote, which develops into a seed. This process is essential for sexual reproduction in plants.

Process of Fertilization

- Pollen grains are transferred from the anther to the stigma of the same or another flower through various agents like wind, insects, birds, or animals.
- Once the pollen grain lands on the stigma, it germinates and produces a pollen tube that grows towards the ovary.
- The pollen tube carries two male gametes to the ovule in the ovary.
- One male gamete fuses with the egg cell to form a zygote, which develops into an embryo.
- The other male gamete fuses with the two polar nuclei to form the endosperm, which provides nourishment to the developing embryo.

Significance of Fertilization

- Fertilization ensures genetic diversity by combining genetic material from two different parent plants.
- It leads to the formation of seeds, which contain the embryo and endosperm, essential for the development of a new plant.
- The process of fertilization is crucial for the continuation of plant species and plays a vital role in the life cycle of plants.

In conclusion, fertilization is a vital process in the reproductive cycle of plants, ensuring the production of seeds and the continuation of plant species.