Question

Which of the following structures participate in double fertilisation ?

• A. Polar Nuclei
• B. Antipodals
• C. Egg
• D. Both (a) and (c)

Hint:

Without "Double" fertilization, you would have an embryo but no food (endosperm) to support its growth.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Double fertilization requires two male gametes to fuse with two different structures within the same female gametophyte.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
- Fusion 1: 1st Male Gamete + Egg $\rightarrow$ Zygote (Syngamy).
- Fusion 2: 2nd Male Gamete + 2 Polar Nuclei $\rightarrow$ Primary Endosperm Nucleus (Triple Fusion).
The antipodal cells and the synergids do not participate in these fusions; they typically degenerate shortly after fertilization.
Step 3: Final Answer:
Since both the polar nuclei and the egg cell undergo fusion with male gametes, they are both participants in the process of double fertilization.