Compare the structure of an insect pollinated flower and a wind pollinated flower?

1 Answer
Jul 31, 2017

Insect pollinated flower vs. wind pollinated flower:

Explanation:

It is important to know that each is adapted for insect pollination or wind pollination

Insect pollinated plants need to be able to attract insects. The insects come to the plant for their sweet nectar, and in the process, they carry the pollen to other plants, and this lets the plants reproduce.

These plants have bright-coloured flowers or sweet smelling fruit and nectar to attract insects. They need the insect to actually have physical contact with the flower so that their pollen can stick to them. Some plants have nectar deep inside so the insect will have to make contact with some parts of the flower, getting pollen on it. The pollen is sticky so it will catch on to the insect.

Wind pollinated plants need to be exposed to the wind. Their anthers are large and hang outwards. There is no unusual scent or colour as they have no need to attract insects. Their pollen grains are light and small. Some pollen grains may be adapted to being carried by the wind. They may have wings so the air is better able to carry them.

These plants also need to catch pollen for their eggs to become fertilized. Their stigma is "feathery" so they can catch pollen that is carried on the wind.