Pollination (Leaving Cert Biology): Revision Notes
📚 Revision Notes
Pollination
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Pollination is the transfer of pollen from an anther to a stigma of a flower from the same species.
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Self pollination means the anther and the carpel are on the same plant. This leads to self fertilisation, which produces offspring that are weaker.
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Cross pollination means that the anther and carpel are on different plants. This leads to cross fertilisation which produces stronger and healthier offspring.
Methods of Cross Pollination
- Wind
- Animal (including insects)
| Feature | Wind Pollination | Animal/Insect Pollination |
|---|---|---|
| Petals | • Small • Green • No scent • Nectar | • Large • Coloured • Scented • Nectar |
| Pollen | • Huge amounts • Small • Light | • Smaller amounts • Large • Sticky |
| Anthers | • Large • Outside petals | • Smaller • Inside petals |
| Stigmas | • Large • Feathery • Outside petals | • Smaller • Rounded • Inside petals |
| Examples | • Grasses • Conifers • Oak | • Daisies • Buttercups • Primroses |
A = animal/insect pollinated flower
B = wind pollinated flower
Hay Fever
- Hay fever is caused by a reaction to pollen grains.
- Symptoms include sneezing, blocked and runny nose, watery and irritated eyes.
- Treatments include;
- Antihistamines to reduce inflammation.
- Decongestant drugs to clear the nose.