Question

Give one example each of a unisexual flower and a bisexual flower. Mention the changes which a flower undergoes after fertilization.

Hint:

Unisexual flowers have only one reproductive organ, while bisexual flowers have both male and female organs. After fertilization, the ovule becomes a seed and the ovary becomes a fruit.

Answer 1

Unisexual Flower: A unisexual flower possesses only one sex organ, either male or female.
- Example: The male corn (maize) flower produces exclusively pollen (male gametes).
Bisexual Flower: A bisexual flower contains both male and female reproductive organs.
- Example: A rose is a bisexual flower; it has both stamens (male) and pistils (female).
Post-Fertilization Changes:
1. Following fertilization, the ovule in a bisexual flower transforms into a seed, and the ovary develops into a fruit.
2. The petals and other non-reproductive flower parts typically detach after fertilization.