KCET2026BiologySexual Reproduction in Flowering Plants
Which of the following statement is/are correct for cleistogamous flowers a) They have exposed anthers and stigma b) They produce assured seed set c) They need pollinators for pollination d) Variations in traits are not seen in next generation
Options
- AOnly Statement (b) is correct
- BStatements (a) and (c) are correct
- CStatements (b) and (d) are correct
- DStatements (b) and (c) are correct
Correct answer
C. Statements (b) and (d) are correct
Step-by-step solution
Cleistogamous flowers are flowers that do not open at all. In such flowers, the anthers and stigma lie close to each other, and they are not exposed. Thus, statement (a) is incorrect. Since these flowers never open, they are invariably autogamous (strictly self-pollinating) and there is no chance of cross-pollen landing on the stigma. Therefore, they do not require pollinators. Thus, statement (c) is incorrect. Because of strict autogamy, they produce an assured seed set even in the absence of pollinators. Thus, st