Question

Which of the following types require pollinator but result is genetically similar to autogamy?

• A. Geitonogamy
• B. Xenogamy
• C. Apogamy
• D. Cleistogamy

Hint:

Break down the terms: 'Geitono-' means neighbor, '-gamy' means marriage. So, pollination with a "neighbor" flower on the same plant. It's functionally cross-pollination but genetically self-pollination.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Autogamy is self-pollination within the same flower. Geitonogamy is the transfer of pollen from the anther of one flower to the stigma of another flower on the \textit{same plant}. Ecologically, this is cross-pollination because it involves a pollinating agent (like an insect or wind). However, genetically it is equivalent to autogamy because the pollen and the ovule come from the same parent plant. Xenogamy is cross-pollination between flowers on different plants. Cleistogamy refers to flowers that never open and are self-pollinated, not requiring a pollinator.