Plant Reproduction: Insect vs Wind Pollination
This page compares two methods of pollination in plants: insect pollination and wind pollination.
Insect pollination:
• Relies on animals to transfer pollen between flowers
• Flowers typically have bright colors, strong scents, and nectar to attract insects
• Anthers pollen−producingstructures may be hidden within the flower
• Stigma pollen−receivingstructure is often sticky to capture pollen
Wind pollination:
• Relies on air currents to transfer pollen between flowers
• Flowers are usually small, dull-colored, and lack scent or nectar
• Anthers are often exposed outside the flower
• Stigma is typically feathery to catch airborne pollen
Vocabulary: Anther - the part of the stamen that produces pollen
Definition: Pollination is the transfer of pollen from the male part of a flower to the female part, enabling fertilization.
Highlight: The adaptations for insect vs wind pollination demonstrate how plants have evolved different strategies for reproductive success.