The gynoecium is the female reproductive part of the flower and consists of one or more carpels. Each carpel includes the stigma, style, and ovary, where the ovules are located. The process of fertilization in flowers involves the fusion of male and female gametes. Here is the description of the process:
1. Pollination: Pollens from the anther are transferred to the stigma of the gynoecium by agents like wind, insects, or water.
2. Germination of Pollen: The pollen grain germinates on the stigma, producing a pollen tube.
3. Growth of Pollen Tube: The pollen tube grows down through the style, reaching the ovary and entering one of the ovules.
4. Fertilization: The male gamete (sperm) from the pollen fuses with the female gamete (egg) in the ovule to form a zygote, which later develops into a seed.
Labelled Diagram of Longitudinal Section (L.S.) of Gynoecium:
Conclusion:
Fertilization in flowers occurs when the male and female gametes meet in the ovule, resulting in the formation of seeds that can grow into new plants.