Which one of the following is not a device to promote cross-pollination?
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Herkogamy
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Dichogamy
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Cleistogamy
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Heterostyle
Reveal answer
Fill a bubble to check yourself
C
Correct answer
Explanation
Cleistogamy is not a device to promote cross-pollination as the flowers remain closed and they promote self-pollination. For example, Balsam, Oxalis and Viola anthers dehisce inside closed flowers.
Herkogamy, dichogamy and heterostyly are the devices which promote cross-pollination. Herkogamy is a mechanical device to prevent self-pollination. For example in Pansy, stigma lies inside a flap.
In dichogamy, anthers and stigma mature at different times which ensures cross-pollination. When anthers mature earlier, it is known as protandry as in sunflower and when stigmas mature earlier it is known as protogyny as in Gloriosa.
In heterostyly, there are 2 or 3 different types of flowers with different heights of stamens and stigmas which prevent self-pollination as in jasmine.
Thus, the correct answer is option C.