Question

What are the significances of double fertilization?

Hint:

Double fertilization = Two fusions. First fusion (male gamete + egg) makes the baby (embryo). Second fusion (male gamete + central cell) makes the baby's food (endosperm).

Answer 1

Significance of Double Fertilization in Angiosperms

Double fertilization is a unique process in angiosperms (flowering plants) that has several significances:

1. Formation of Embryo and Endosperm: It ensures that both the embryo (from syngamy, the fusion of one male gamete with the egg) and the nutritive tissue, the endosperm (from triple fusion, the fusion of the second male gamete with the central cell), are formed simultaneously.
2. Efficient Nutrient Use: The endosperm, which provides nourishment to the developing embryo, is only formed when fertilization is successful. This prevents the plant from wasting energy and resources on an unfertilized ovule.
3. Triploid Endosperm: The formation of a triploid (3n) endosperm provides a unique genetic makeup that is highly efficient at providing nutrients for the diploid (2n) embryo.
4. Increased Seed Viability: The nourishment provided by the endosperm increases the chances of the embryo surviving and developing into a healthy seedling, thus enhancing the viability of the seeds.
5. Basis for Angiosperm Dominance: This efficient reproductive mechanism is considered one of the key reasons for the evolutionary success and dominance of angiosperms in most terrestrial ecosystems.

Conclusion:

Double fertilization is a key process that not only ensures the development of both the embryo and the endosperm but also improves seed viability and nutrient efficiency. This process plays a significant role in the evolutionary success of angiosperms, contributing to their widespread presence in terrestrial ecosystems.