Question

What are the advantages and disadvantages of self and cross-pollination?

Answer 1

Pollination:

Pollination is the transfer of pollen grains from the anther to the stigma of a pistil of the flower.

Self-pollination:

1. It is also known as Autogamy.
2. In self-pollination, pollen grains are transferred from the anther to the stigma of the same flower.

Advantages of self-pollination:

1. The race's purity is preserved.
2. Pollen grains do not go to waste.
3. Pollination is not dependent on external causes or pollinating agents.

Disadvantages of self-pollination:

1. The seeds are smaller in number.
2. New plant varieties cannot be created.

ii) Cross-pollination:

1. It is also known as Xenogamy.
2. In cross-pollination, pollen grains are transferred from the anther to the stigma of another flower.

Advantages of cross-pollination:

1. New varieties are created as a result of cross-pollination.
2. Seeds are produced in more significant quantities and are more viable.

Disadvantages of cross-pollination:

1. Pollen grains are being wasted in more significant quantities.
2. Because of the distance barrier, pollination may fail.
3. Cross-pollination has the potential to introduce undesirable traits.
4. It is uneconomical for plants to create huge, scented, nectar-filled flowers to attract insects.