Step 1: Understanding asexual reproduction.
Asexual reproduction involves the production of offspring without the involvement of gametes. In flowering plants, apomixis is the process of asexual reproduction where seeds are produced without fertilization.
Step 2: Analysis of options.
- (A) Apomixis: Correct. Apomixis is an asexual mode of reproduction in plants where the seed develops without fertilization.
- (B) Pollination: Incorrect. Pollination is the process of transferring pollen from male to female parts for fertilization; it is not a form of asexual reproduction.
- (C) Cross-fertilization: Incorrect. Cross-fertilization involves the fusion of gametes from two different plants, which is sexual reproduction.
- (D) Parthenocarpy: Incorrect. Parthenocarpy refers to the formation of fruit without fertilization, but it does not involve asexual reproduction.
Step 3: Conclusion.
Apomixis is the only option that describes a mode of asexual reproduction in plants.
Final Answer:} Apomixis.