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Difficulty: EasyReproductive Systems and Processes in Organisms

Which of the following structural features is a characteristic adaptation of wind-pollinated (anemophilous) flowers?

  1. Light, dry, and smooth pollen grains produced in large quantitiesAnswer
  2. B
    Large, brightly colored petals with sugary nectar guides
  3. C
    Heavy, sticky pollen grains covered with sculptured outer walls
  4. D
    Small, sticky stigmas fully enclosed deep inside the floral tube

Answer

Light, dry, and smooth pollen grains produced in large quantities
Wind pollination depends on air currents for pollen transfer. Producing massive numbers of lightweight, dry, and smooth pollen grains ensures that pollen can float efficiently through the air and overcome the low probability of landing on a receptive stigma.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Identify the mode of pollination mentioned in the stem
The target plant relies on wind pollination (anemophily).
Anemophilous flowers require adaptations that facilitate the release, transport, and capture of airborne pollen.
2
Analyze the physical properties required for wind dispersal of pollen
Pollen must be light, dry, smooth-surfaced, and generated in enormous quantities to compensate for random wind drift.
Heavy or sticky pollen grains would clump together and fall to the ground rather than remaining airborne.

Key Concept

Floral Adaptations for Wind Pollination (Anemophily)
Estimated Time:45s
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Topics

Reproductive Systems and Processes in Organisms

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