Question

Which of the following substances protects pollen grains from chemicals?

Options

• Pectin

• Hemicellulose

• Cellulose

• Sporopollenin

Answer 1

Sporopollenin

Explanation:

Sporopollenin is an extremely resistant, chemically inert biopolymer that makes up the tough outer wall (exine) of pollen grains. Its chemical stability (resistance to acids, bases, enzymes and environmental degradation) protects the pollen’s cellular contents and the male gametes from chemical damage and harsh conditions.