MHT CET Medical202624 April 2026Morning ShiftBiologySexual Reproduction in Flowering PlantsActual
Which one of the following does NOT promote cross pollination?
Options
- AHerkogamy
- BSelf sterility
- CHeteromorphy
- DCleistogamy
Correct answer
D. Cleistogamy
Step-by-step solution
Cleistogamy refers to the condition where flowers do not open at all. In such flowers, the anthers and stigma lie close to each other, and when anthers dehisce in the flower buds, pollen grains come in contact with the stigma to effect pollination. Thus, cleistogamous flowers are invariably autogamous (self-pollinating) as there is no chance of cross-pollen landing on the stigma. Therefore, cleistogamy does not promote cross-pollination. Herkogamy is a physical barrier between the anther and stigma that prevents se