Question

Which of the following describes geitonogamy?

• A. Fertilization of a flower by the pollen from the same flower
• B. Fertilization of a flower by the pollen from another flower of the same plant
• C. Fertilization of a flower by the pollen from a flower of another plant belonging to a distant population
• D. Fertilization of a flower by the pollen from a flower of another plant in the same population

Answer 1

The correct option is B

Fertilization of a flower by the pollen from another flower of the same plant

The correct option is B.

Explanation of correct option:

1. Geitonogamy is the transfer of pollen grains from one flower's anther to the stigma of another flower on the same plant by a pollinator.
2. It is a self-pollination process.
3. For example, maize.

Explanation of incorrect options:

Option A:

1. Autogamy is the fertilization of a flower by pollen from the same flower.
2. It is also a self-pollination process.
3. For example, wheat, rice, etc.
4. Generally happens in closed flowers like cleistogamous flowers that do not require a pollination agent to pollinate.

Option C:

1. Xenogamy is the transfer of pollen from one flower to another flower of a different plant.
2. It is a cross-pollination process.
3. For example, broccoli, squash, etc.

Option D:

1. Fertilization of a flower by the pollen from a flower of another plant in the same population is also a cross-pollination process.
2. For example, tomatoes, pumpkins, and apples.

Final Answer: Geitonogamy involves the fertilization of a flower by the pollen from another flower of the same plant.