Question

Describe any three adaptations in anemophilous flowers.

Hint:

Hydrophilous flowers are adapted to pollination by water, with structures that facilitate the movement of pollen in aquatic environments.

Answer 1

Step 1: Understanding Anemophilous Flowers.
Anemophilous flowers are those that are pollinated by the wind. They have several adaptations to enhance wind pollination.
Step 2: Adaptations in Anemophilous Flowers.
1. Light, non-fragrant flowers: These flowers are typically small, pale, and lack fragrance, which helps reduce the attraction of insects and allows wind to carry the pollen.
2. Exposed anthers and large stigmas: The anthers are often long and hang outside the flower to release pollen into the air. The stigma is large, feathery, and sticky to capture the pollen carried by the wind.
3. Abundant, lightweight pollen: The pollen grains are small, light, and produced in large quantities to increase the chances of successful pollination.
Step 3: Conclusion.
Anemophilous flowers are well adapted to wind pollination by having light flowers, exposed reproductive organs, and abundant pollen.
ii. Mention any one example of the anemophilous flower.
Solution:
Step 1: Example of Anemophilous Flower.
An example of an anemophilous flower is corn (Zea mays).
Step 2: Conclusion.
Corn is an anemophilous plant that uses wind for pollination.
iii. Describe any three adaptations in hydrophilous flowers.
Solution:
Step 1: Understanding Hydrophilous Flowers.
Hydrophilous flowers are pollinated by water, usually found in aquatic plants. These flowers have adaptations that allow them to float or interact with water for pollination.
Step 2: Adaptations in Hydrophilous Flowers.
1. Floating flowers or long stalks: Many hydrophilous flowers are adapted to float on the surface of water or have long stalks to keep the flower above the water.
2. Sticky, large, and buoyant pollen: The pollen grains are large, sticky, and often buoyant, which allows them to float on water and adhere to the stigma of another flower.
3. Open flowers: The flowers are often large and open, allowing easy access to water for pollination.
Step 3: Conclusion.
Hydrophilous flowers are specially adapted to the water environment with floating structures, sticky pollen, and open flowers for easy pollination.
iv. Mention any one example of the hydrophilous flower.
Solution:
Step 1: Example of Hydrophilous Flower.
An example of a hydrophilous flower is water lily (Nymphaea).
Step 2: Conclusion.
The water lily is a hydrophilous plant that uses water for pollination.