Growing Pollen Tubes

One of a series of resources from Science & Plants for Schools (SAPS) investigating key topics in plant biology. An enjoyable and thought-provoking introduction to the topic of sexual reproduction in plants. Students observe in real time the growth of a pollen tube, over the course of a lesson. When a pollen grain is released from an anther, it is partially dehydrated. If it lands on the surface of a stigma of the same flower (self-compatible) or of a different flower of the same species (self-incompatible), it rehydrates. The growth of pollen tubes is easily demonstrated under a microscope, using a mineral salt and sugar solution to mimic the surface of a stigma on a flower.

The resource is suitable for use at Key Stage Three, GCSE and A level.

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• URL: http://stem.org.uk/rx5bg