Post Fertilisation in Plant: Structures and Events

Post Fertilization in plant: Structures and events 

Introduction: 

• Post-fertilization events in plants are the series of changes that occur after fertilization, resulting in the development of seeds and fruit.  

• After the fusion of male and female gametes during fertilization, the zygote develops into an embryo, while other parts, such as the ovule and ovary, transform into seeds and fruits.  

• These processes ensure the continuation of the plant species by producing viable offspring capable of germination and growth into new plants. The transformation of these structures is essential for the reproduction cycle of flowering plants. 

Structures and events: 

• Zygote Formation: The zygote, formed by the fusion of male and female gametes, undergoes mitotic divisions to develop into an embryo. 

• Embryogenesis: The zygote divides and differentiates into various tissues, ultimately forming the plant embryo with structures like the radicle, plumule, and cotyledons. 

• Endosperm Development: The triploid primary endosperm nucleus (PEN) develops into endosperm tissue, which serves as a nutritive source for the developing embryo. 

• Ovule Maturation: The ovule undergoes changes to form a seed. The integuments surrounding the ovule develop into the seed coat, protecting the embryo. 

• Seed Formation: The fertilized ovule matures into a seed, which contains the embryo, endosperm, and seed coat, ensuring the protection and nourishment of the future plant. 

• Fruit Development: The ovary transforms into a fruit, surrounding the seeds. Fruits help in seed dispersal by attracting animals or using other mechanisms like wind or water. 

• Seed Coat Hardening: The integuments surrounding the seed harden to form the seed coat, providing protection from environmental stresses and pathogens. 

• Pericarp Formation: The wall of the ovary develops into the pericarp, a part of the fruit, which can be fleshy or dry, help in seed dispersal mechanisms. 

• Dormancy: In some plants, the seed enters a dormant phase, ensuring that it germinates only under favorable conditions for growth. 

• Seed Dispersal: The mature fruit helps in the dispersal of seeds through various agents like wind, water, and animals, ensuring that seeds spread and germinate in new locations.