What is wet stigma?

What is Wet Stigma?

Wet stigma, also known as sticky stigma, is a type of stigma that is characterized by its ability to secrete an exudate, which allows pollen hydration and germination to occur, even with pollen from other species. This type of stigma is found in plants that are capable of self-pollination, as well as those that are cross-pollinated by insects or other animals.

Key Features of Wet Stigma

• Exudate secretion: Wet stigma secretes a sticky substance, known as an exudate, which helps to trap and retain pollen.
• Pollen hydration: The exudate secreted by the wet stigma helps to hydrate the pollen, allowing it to germinate and produce a pollen tube.
• Cross-pollination: Wet stigma allows for cross-pollination, as pollen from other plants can adhere to the sticky surface and germinate.
• Self-pollination: Wet stigma also allows for self-pollination, as pollen from the same plant can adhere to the sticky surface and germinate.

How Wet Stigma Aids in Pollination

Wet stigma plays a crucial role in the pollination process by providing a sticky surface for pollen to adhere to. This allows pollen to be retained on the stigma for a longer period, increasing the chances of successful pollination. Additionally, the exudate secreted by the wet stigma helps to hydrate the pollen, making it more receptive to germination.

Types of Wet Stigma

There are several types of wet stigma, including:

• Feathery stigma: This type of stigma has a feathery or brush-like structure, which helps to trap and retain pollen.
• Glandular stigma: This type of stigma has glandular hairs that secrete an exudate, which helps to trap and retain pollen.
• Papillate stigma: This type of stigma has papillae, or small projections, that secrete an exudate, which helps to trap and retain pollen.

Examples of Plants with Wet Stigma

Some examples of plants that have wet stigma include:

• Grasses: Many species of grasses have wet stigma, which allows them to be self-pollinated and cross-pollinated.
• Cereals: Cereals such as wheat, oats, and barley have wet stigma, which allows them to be self-pollinated and cross-pollinated.
• Fruit trees: Some fruit trees, such as apples and pears, have wet stigma, which allows them to be cross-pollinated.

Conclusion

In conclusion, wet stigma is a type of stigma that is characterized by its ability to secrete an exudate, which allows pollen hydration and germination to occur, even with pollen from other species. This type of stigma is found in plants that are capable of self-pollination, as well as those that are cross-pollinated by insects or other animals. The key features of wet stigma include exudate secretion, pollen hydration, cross-pollination, and self-pollination. By understanding the types and characteristics of wet stigma, we can better appreciate the importance of pollination in plant reproduction.