Distinguish between the pollen grains of insect-pollinated and wind-pollinated flowers

Pollen grains from insect-pollinated and wind-pollinated flowers exhibit distinct characteristics that reflect their adaptations to different modes of pollination. Here’s a comparison of the two types:

Pollen Grains of Insect-Pollinated Flowers

1. Size:
   • Pollen grains are generally larger in size compared to those of wind-pollinated flowers.
2. Texture:
   • The grains are often sticky and may have a spiny or rough surface. This stickiness helps them adhere to the bodies of insects, facilitating transfer from one flower to another.
3. Weight:
   • They are relatively heavier, which prevents them from being easily carried by the wind.
4. Production:
   • Insect-pollinated flowers produce moderate amounts of pollen, as they rely on insects for transfer rather than dispersing large quantities into the air.
5. Color and Scent:
   • These pollen grains are often associated with flowers that have brightly colored petals and emit a strong fragrance, attracting pollinators like bees and butterflies.

Pollen Grains of Wind-Pollinated Flowers

1. Size:
   • Pollen grains are typically smaller than those from insect-pollinated flowers.
2. Texture:
   • They are usually smooth and non-sticky, which allows them to be easily carried by air currents.
3. Weight:
   • Wind-pollinated pollen grains are lightweight, facilitating their travel over long distances through the air.
4. Production:
   • These flowers produce a large quantity of pollen to increase the likelihood that some will reach the stigma of another flower, as many grains may be lost to the environment.
5. Color and Scent:
   • Wind-pollinated flowers tend to have dull colors, lack fragrance, and do not produce nectar since they do not need to attract animal pollinators.

Summary Table