Question

What is the disadvantage of cleistogamy?

Answer 1

Cleistogamy:

1. Cleistogamy is the self-pollination of some plants that have spread via non-opening flowers.
2. Cleistogamy is seen in peanuts, peas, and other legumes.
3. Because cleistogamous flowers do not open, pollen from other flowers does not fall on the stigma, resulting in self-pollination and avoiding cross-pollination.
4. Hence, cleistogamy only assures autogamy.

Disadvantages of cleistogamy:

1. Inbreeding depression may result from continuous self-pollination.
2. Due to self-pollination, it reduces the possibilities of variations that result to production of genetically better plants.