Cleistogamies meaning

Cleistogamies are a reproductive strategy in plants where flowers self-pollinate before opening.


Cleistogamies definitions

Word backwards seimagotsielc
Part of speech Noun
Syllabic division cleis-to-ga-mies
Plural The plural of the word cleistogamy is cleistogamies.
Total letters 13
Vogais (4) e,i,o,a
Consonants (6) c,l,s,t,g,m

Understanding Cleistogamy

Cleistogamy is a fascinating phenomenon in the plant kingdom where certain plants have the ability to self-pollinate without the need for external pollinators. This unique reproductive strategy allows plants to ensure successful reproduction even in adverse environmental conditions or when pollinators are scarce.

Characteristics of Cleistogamous Plants

Cleistogamous plants produce specialized flowers called cleistogamous flowers, which remain closed and self-pollinate within the flower bud. These flowers are often smaller and lack the colorful petals and nectar that attract pollinators. Instead, they develop close to the ground or within the foliage, hidden from view.

Advantages of Cleistogamy

Self-pollination in cleistogamous plants offers several advantages. It reduces the reliance on external pollinators, ensuring reproductive success even in isolated or harsh environments. Cleistogamous plants can produce seeds quickly without the need to attract pollinators, allowing them to colonize new habitats efficiently.

Disadvantages of Cleistogamy

While cleistogamy provides reproductive assurance, it can also limit genetic diversity within populations. Self-pollination can lead to inbreeding and reduce the ability of plants to adapt to changing environmental conditions. Additionally, cleistogamous plants may miss out on genetic variability introduced through cross-pollination.

Examples of Cleistogamous Plants

Viola odorata, also known as the sweet violet, exhibits cleistogamy with its two distinct flower types. The showy chasmogamous flowers attract pollinators, while the inconspicuous cleistogamous flowers ensure reproduction under unfavorable conditions. Other examples of cleistogamous plants include Impatiens capensis (jewelweed) and Viola pubescens (yellow forest violet).


Cleistogamies Examples

  1. The cleistogamous flowers of certain plants ensure reproduction even in unfavorable conditions.
  2. Some species exhibit cleistogamies as a reproductive strategy during times of drought.
  3. Cleistogamous flowers are often self-pollinated, leading to genetic homogeneity.
  4. In cleistogamies, flowers remain closed, preventing cross-pollination with other individuals.
  5. Certain plants have evolved cleistogamies to ensure reproductive success in isolated habitats.
  6. The mechanism of cleistogamies allows plants to reproduce without the need for external pollinators.
  7. Some researchers study the genetic effects of cleistogamies on plant populations.
  8. Cleistogamies can be an adaptation to ensure reproduction in unpredictable environments.
  9. Plants with cleistogamous flowers may still produce showy, open flowers for attracting pollinators.
  10. Understanding the role of cleistogamies in plant evolution can provide insights into breeding strategies.


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  • Updated 02/07/2024 - 19:10:50