Question

Enumerate the characteristic features of anemophilous plants.

Answer 1

1. Pendulous, catkin-like flower or spike inflorescence are present.
2. The flowers are brought well above the leaves with an elongated axis of the inflorescence.
3. The perianth is absent or highly reduced.
4. The stamens are numerous with long filaments, exerted and versatile anther.
5. Enormous quantities of pollen grains are produced compared to the number of ovules available for pollination.
6. The pollen grains are minute, light, and dry in order to transport long-distance by the wind.
7. In some plants like Urtica, the anthers burst violently and release the pollen into the air.
8. Stigmas are comparatively large protruding, sometimes branched feathery, and adapted to catch the pollen grains.
9. Generally, a single ovule is present.
10. Flowers are produced before the new leaves appear so that the pollen can be carried by wind without any hindrance of leaves.