Difference Between Self-Pollination and Cross-Pollination
The difference between Self-Pollination and Cross-Pollination are as follows:
| Feature | Self-Pollination | Cross-Pollination |
|---|---|---|
| Definition | Pollen from the same flower or plant fertilizes the ovules within that flower or plant. | Pollen from one flower or plant is transferred to the stigma of another flower or plant. |
| Mechanism | Autogamy (transfer of pollen within the same flower) or geitonogamy (transfer of pollen between flowers on the same plant). | Involves the transfer of pollen between flowers on different plants. |
| Genetic Diversity | Low genetic diversity. Offspring are genetically identical to the parent plant. | High genetic diversity. Offspring inherit genetic material from two different parent plants. |
| Advantages | No dependency on external pollinating agents. | Greater genetic variability, promoting adaptability to changing environments. |
| Disadvantages | Limited genetic diversity, making the population susceptible to diseases and environmental changes. | Requires external agents (wind, insects, animals) for successful pollination. |
| Examples | Peas, tomatoes (some varieties can self-pollinate). | Apples, cherries, watermelons, zucchinis, where pollination often involves insects or wind. |
| Dependency on Agents | Not dependent on external agents; relies on gravity, structural features, or self-transfer. | Requires external agents (wind, insects, animals) for successful transfer of pollen between flowers. |
Types of Pollination
Pollination is transferring pollen from the male anther to the female stigma of a plant. It forms an essential part of the plant reproduction process that leads to fertilization and the production of seeds. There are two types of pollination: Self-pollination and cross-pollination. The other types of pollination include Entomophily, Ornithophily, Geitonogamy, Chiropterophily, Hydrophily, and Zoophily. Various pollinating agents that carry the pollen grain are wind, water, insects, birds, bees, and animals. In this article, we will study pollination, its Types, pollinating agents, and its advantages and disadvantages.
Table of Content
- Pollination Definition
- What is Pollination?
- Types of Pollination
- Self Pollination
- Cross Pollination
- Pollinating Agents
- Difference Between Self-Pollination and Cross-Pollination