Question

Discuss the role of pollen-pistil interaction in ensuring successful hybrid formation.

Answer 1

The pistil and pollen interact in a biochemical conversation that serves as a molecular checkpoint.

• Incoming pollen is identified by the pistil as either compatible (right species/variety) or incompatible (wrong type/self-pollen in self-incompatible plants).
• The only pollen that can germinate and build a pollen tube through the style to the ovary is suitable pollen.
• This guarantees real and successful hybrid creation by ensuring that fertilization only takes place with the desired male gamete.