Biology / Unit 11 Bio 2609 short lesson, about 20 seconds
Self-Pollination versus Cross-Pollination
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The idea
Self-pollination deposits pollen on the same flower or plant's stigma; cross-pollination deposits it on a different plant, producing greater genetic diversity in offspring.
In practice
A pea flower with stamen and carpel close together can self-pollinate without an outside pollinating agent.
Where people slip
Self-pollination is not a lesser form of reproduction — it remains sexual reproduction, involving meiosis and fertilization.
Your place on the trail
Every lesson rests on earlier ones and opens later ones. Tap any to jump.
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