Question

Winged pollen grains are present in

• A. Pinus
• B. Mustard
• C. Mango
• D. Cycas

Hint:

This type of pollen grain is commonly found in a specific plant genus known for its unique reproductive structures.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Winged pollen grains are present in Pinus. In Pinus, the outer exine is extended on two lateral sides to form the wings of pollen. Pollen grains are the male gametophyte present in the anther of flowering plants.

For cycas and pinus, wind is the pollinating agent but the pollens of cycas are dry, light and round-shaped. The pollens of mango and mustard are sticky and heavy. In these plants, pollination is carried out by insects. 

Therefore, option A is the correct answer.

Discover More From Chapter: Sexual Reproduction in Flowering Plants

Answer 2

The Correct Answer is (A)

Real Life Applications

Real-life uses of winged pollen grains can be attributed to: 

• In agriculture and forestry it is used to track the spread of pollen from one tree to another and the information thus collected can be used for healthy management of forest or agricultural fields. 
• It is widely used in the pollination of other plants, as the name suggests, in a way participates in the reproductive process. 
• This can be seen in the study of plant genetics to aid the development of the biotech industry. 
• We can also get idea about changes in plants so that disease can be reduced.

Question can also be asked as

• Name some examples of winged pollen grain trees. 
• Do the winged pollen grains have an active role in the reproduction of plants under the aquatic ecosystem? 
• What is the specific function of pollen grains in plants? 
• What is the difference between Cycas and Pinus with respect to winged pollen grain?

Answer 3

The Correct Answer is (A)

Pinus belong to the genus of coniferous plants found in various parts of the world. It has the presence of winged pollen grains, which play a crucial role in their reproductive process.

• Pollen grains are tiny, powdery structures produced by the male reproductive organs of plants called stamens.
• The main function of pollen grains is to transfer the male gametes (sperm cells) from the stamen to the female reproductive organs for fertilization.

Winged Pollen Grains

• Winged pollen grains in Pinus trees aid in their dispersal and reproductive success.
• The wings are extensions of the pollen grain's outer wall, providing buoyancy and facilitating wind dispersal.

Also Read:

Related Concepts
Apomixis	Double fertilization	Fragmentation
Gemmule formation	Polyembryony	Flower Structure

Mechanism of Wind Dispersal

• Pinus trees grow in environments where wind is the primary means of pollen transport.
• The winged pollen grains are lightweight so they are easily carried by wind currents over long distances.
• Winged pollen grains play a vital role in cross-pollination.
• As the wind carries the pollen, it can reach distant pine trees, reducing the chances of inbreeding.

The presence of winged pollen grains in Pinus trees is an adaptation to their natural habitats. By utilizing wind dispersal, Pinus trees can colonize new areas and ensure the survival and propagation of their species.