Question

Do all pollen grains remain viability for the same length of time? Support your answer with two suitable examples.

Hint:

For exams, remember the "30-minute rule" for cereals and "months" for the three major families: Rosaceae, Leguminosae, and Solanaceae.

Answer 1

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Pollen viability refers to the ability of a pollen grain to germinate on the stigma and perform its function in fertilization. This duration is not constant across all plant species.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
The viability of pollen grains depends on the genetic makeup of the plant and environmental factors like temperature and moisture levels.
Two suitable examples are:
1. Cereals (e.g., Rice and Wheat): In these plants, pollen grains lose viability very quickly, usually within 30 minutes of their release.
2. Members of Rosaceae, Leguminosae, and Solanaceae: In these families, pollen grains can maintain their viability for several months.
Step 3: Final Answer:
Pollen viability varies significantly; for instance, it lasts only 30 minutes in wheat but several months in members of the Solanaceae family.