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Difficulty: EasyReproductive Systems and Processes in Organisms

Flowers pollinated by insects exhibit specific structural features to ensure effective pollen transfer. Which of the following characteristics is an adaptation typical of an insect-pollinated flower?

  1. Large, brightly coloured petals and sticky pollen grainsAnswer
  2. B
    Feathery stigmas protruding far outside the flower petals
  3. C
    Smooth, lightweight pollen produced in vast quantities
  4. D
    Long, flexible filaments with loosely attached versatile anthers

Answer

Large, brightly coloured petals and sticky pollen grains
Insect-pollinated flowers depend on animal vectors for pollination. Consequently, they possess large, brightly coloured petals to attract insects and sticky pollen grains that adhere readily to the insect's body for transfer to the stigma of another flower.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify the mode of pollination mentioned in the question stem
The question asks for adaptations specific to insect pollination (entomophily).
Different pollination vectors (wind, insects, water) require distinct structural modifications in flowers.
2
Evaluate floral structural adaptations for insect attraction and pollen adherence
Insects are attracted by visual signals (bright petals) and food rewards (nectar). The pollen must be sticky to attach to the insect's body.
Insect vectors carry pollen directly between flowers, unlike wind currents which disperse pollen randomly.

Key Concept

Structural adaptations of entomophilous (insect-pollinated) versus anemophilous (wind-pollinated) flowers
Estimated Time:45s
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Topics

Reproductive Systems and Processes in Organisms

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