Brilio.net - Pollination is an important process in the life cycle of plants that allows for fertilization and seed production. This process involves the transfer of pollen from the male part of the plant to the female part, which then produces fruit and seeds. Understanding the different types of pollination helps in recognizing how different plants reproduce and produce new generations.
There are several ways of pollination, each with its own mechanism and process. Pollination can be done by natural agents such as wind or insects, or manually by humans in some agricultural practices. Each method plays a crucial role in the success of the plant's reproductive process and often depends on the type of plant and the environment in which it grows.
By learning about the different types of pollination, you can gain a better understanding of how plants develop and produce seeds. This is also important for successful farming and gardening practices, especially in increasing crop yields and crop diversity.
Brilio.net reports from various sources, here is a complete review of pollination, Friday (6/9).
Types of pollination.
1. Pollination by wind (Anemophily).
Definition : Wind pollination, or anemophily, is the process by which pollen is transferred from male flowers to female flowers by the wind. This process usually occurs in plants with inconspicuous flowers and do not produce nectar.
Process: In wind pollination, pollen produced by male flowers travels through the air and lands on the stigma of female flowers. Plants that depend on the wind usually have light, feathery pollen to facilitate airborne dispersal.
Example: Some examples of plants that experience wind pollination are corn, wheat, and grass. These plants have simple flower structures and lots of pollen.
2. Pollination by insects (Entomophily).
Definition: Insect pollination, or entomophily, involves the transfer of pollen from male flowers to female flowers through the activities of insects such as bees, butterflies, and beetles. This process is important for flowering plants that produce nectar and have attractive colors and scents.
Process: Insects come to flowers to find nectar or pollen as a food source. During this process, pollen sticks to the insect's body and is transported to other flowers as the insect moves.
Example: Plants such as sunflowers, apples, and tomatoes often depend on insect pollination. The presence of active insects is essential to increasing the yield and quality of fruit in these crops.
3. Pollination by water (Hydrophily).
Definition: Water pollination, or hydrophilia, is the process by which pollen is transferred through water. This pollination is rare but important for some types of aquatic plants.
Process: In water pollination, pollen released from male flowers sinks into the water and is carried by the water current to the female flowers. This often occurs in plants that grow in aquatic environments.
Example: Aquatic plants such as water lilies and water algae are examples of plants that experience water pollination. This mechanism allows them to reproduce in unique aquatic habitats.
4. Pollination by birds (Ornithophily).
Definition: Bird pollination, or ornithophily, involves birds as pollinating agents. Birds, such as hummingbirds, fly from flower to flower looking for nectar and indirectly carrying pollen.
Process: Birds seeking nectar visit various flowers, and during this process, pollen sticks to their beaks or feet. When the birds move to another flower, the pollen is transferred to the stigma of the female flower.
Example: Plants such as hibiscus and heliconia flowers are examples that depend on bird pollination. Characteristics of these flowers include bright colors and shapes that are attractive to birds.
5. Pollination by humans (manual).
Definition: Manual pollination is a process in which humans directly transfer pollen from male flowers to female flowers. This technique is often used in agriculture and plantations to increase crop yields.
Process: Humans use a brush or special tool to pick up pollen from male flowers and apply it to female flowers. This process ensures that the pollen is transferred effectively and increases the chances of fertilization.
Example: Manual pollination is often applied to fruit crops such as vanilla and grapes, especially in large-scale production in gardens or greenhouses.