Question

Describe the microsporogenesis in flowering plants with suitable diagram.

Hint:

Microsporogenesis = MMC (2n) $\xrightarrow{\text{meiosis}}$ microspore tetrad (n) $\rightarrow$ pollen grains.

Answer 1

Step 1: Definition.
Microsporogenesis is the process of formation of microspores (pollen grains) from microspore mother cells (MMC) in the anther of flowering plants.

Step 2: Process. \[\begin{array}{rl} 1. & \text{In the anther, diploid microspore mother cells (2n) undergo meiosis.} \\ 2. & \text{Each MMC forms a tetrad of four haploid microspores (n).} \\ 3. & \text{These microspores separate and develop into pollen grains, which act as male gametophytes.} \\ \end{array}\]

Step 3: Diagram.

Step 4: Significance.
\[\begin{array}{rl} \bullet & \text{Ensures genetic variation due to meiosis.} \\ \bullet & \text{Produces pollen grains for fertilization.} \\ \bullet & \text{Essential step in sexual reproduction of angiosperms.} \\ \end{array}\]