Question

Advantage of cleistogamy is

• A. No dependence on pollinators
• B. Vivipary
• C. Higher genetic variability
• D. More vigorous offspring

Answer 1

The correct option is A No dependence on pollinators

Cleistogamy is the process of pollination and fertilization before the flower has opened. In such flowers, the anther and stigma lie close to each other. When anthers dehisce in the flower buds, pollen grains come in contact with the stigma to effect pollination. Thus, cleistogamous flowers are invariably autogamous as there is no chance of cross-pollen landing on the stigma. The advantage though is that cleistogamous flowers produce assured seed-set even in the absence of pollinators.