Plant Reproduction and Embryo Development

Which of the following is a part of the mature ovule?

What is the function of the micropyle in the ovule?

Double fertilization involves the fusion of one sperm with the egg cell and a second sperm with the polar nuclei.

What is formed when the sperm unites with the egg cell?

What tissue is produced when the second sperm unites with the two polar nuclei?

What does the radicle develop into?

The _______ are the first leaves of the developing embryo.

What happens to the integuments of the ovule after fertilization?

Seed formation does not involve any changes in the ovule size.

Ovule Structure

The ovule contains the integument, micropyle, nucellus, endosperm, and embryo sac.
The integument becomes the testa which protects the embryo.
The micropyle is the opening where the pollen tube enters.
The nucellus provides nutrition, as does the endosperm.
The embryo sac contains the ovum (megaspore) which becomes the embryo.

Double Fertilization

Double fertilization occurs when two sperm cells fertilize the ovule.
One sperm cell fuses with the egg cell to form the zygote (2n).
The second sperm cell fuses with the two polar nuclei to form the endosperm (3n).

Plant Embryo Development

The radicle is the first part of the embryo to emerge and grows downwards, forming the root.
The cotyledons are the first leaves of the embryo that grow upwards.
Fertilization initiates embryo development which causes changes in the ovule and ovary.
Changes may occur in other parts of the flower too.
The ovule increases in size to form the seed.
The integuments thicken and become lignified forming the testa, which protects the embryo.
The embryo develops further, with the radicle and cotyledons becoming apparent.

This quiz delves into the structure of ovules, the process of double fertilization, and the stages of plant embryo development. Discover key terms such as integument, micropyle, and the roles of various cells in the formation of seeds. Test your knowledge on how fertilization impacts the growth of plants and the intricacies of plant reproductive systems.