Question

The outer protective layer of the pollen grain wall (sporoderm) is the exine. Which tough, resistant substance primarily makes up this layer?

Options

• Cellulose

• Pectin

• Sporopollenin

• Lignin

Answer 1

Sporopollenin

Explanation:

The exine is composed of sporopollenin, which provides exceptional chemical and physical resistance to protect the pollen. The inner layer, the intine, is instead made of softer cellulose and pectin.