Identify and draw the sepals, petals, stamens (anthers and filaments) and carpels (stigmas, styles, ovaries and ovules) of an insect-pollinated flower
Identify and draw the sepals, petals, stamens (anthers and filaments) and carpels (stigmas, styles, ovaries and ovules) of an insect-pollinated flower
Answer
To identify and illustrate the key structures of an insect-pollinated flower, we will focus on the following components: sepals, petals, stamens (including anthers and filaments), and carpels (including stigmas, styles, ovaries, and ovules). Below is a description of each part along with a simple diagram.
Flower Structure
- Sepals: These are the outermost parts of the flower that protect the bud before it opens. They are usually green and leaf-like.
- Petals: Often brightly colored and fragrant, petals attract pollinators such as insects. They form the corolla of the flower.
- Stamens: The male reproductive parts of the flower. Each stamen consists of:
- Anther: The part that produces pollen (the male gametes).
- Filament: A stalk that supports the anther.
- Carpels: The female reproductive parts of the flower. Each carpel consists of:
- Stigma: The sticky top part where pollen grains adhere.
- Style: A slender stalk that connects the stigma to the ovary.
- Ovary: The swollen base that contains ovules (the female gametes).
- Ovules: Structures within the ovary that develop into seeds after fertilization.
Summary of Functions
- Sepals protect the flower before it blooms.
- Petals attract pollinators with their color and scent.
- Stamens produce pollen for fertilization.
- Carpels receive pollen and house ovules for seed development.