Mesogamy is a specific type of fertilization in plants where the pollen tube enters the ovule through the integuments.
Understanding Mesogamy
After pollination, the pollen tube grows and makes its way towards the ovary to facilitate fertilization. The entry point of the pollen tube into the ovule varies among plant species. Mesogamy is one such method.
Key Aspects of Mesogamy:
- Pollen Tube Entry: The pollen tube doesn't enter through the micropyle (porogamy) or the chalaza (chalazogamy) but instead penetrates the ovule via the integuments.
- Integuments: Integuments are protective layers of cells that surround the ovule.
- Fertilization: Ultimately, this process leads to the fusion of the male gametes from the pollen tube with the female gametes within the ovule, resulting in fertilization and seed development.
