CHALAZOGAMY Meaning and
Definition
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Chalazogamy is a botanical term that refers to the process of fertilization in certain plants, particularly in gymnosperms. It involves the union of male and female gametes without the occurrence of an actual physical contact between them.
In chalazogamy, the male gametes, also known as sperm cells, are released from the pollen grains. These sperm cells are then transported directly to the egg cells, which are located within the ovule, through a pollen tube. The synergid cells, present in the ovule, guide the pollen tube towards the egg cells, aiding in the fertilization process.
Unlike other forms of fertilization, such as zoogamy or siphonogamy, which rely on the assistance of external factors like animals or water for the transportation of the male gametes to the female gametes, chalazogamy occurs within the plant's reproductive structures themselves.
Chalazogamy is most commonly observed in certain gymnosperms, such as cycads and ginkgos. These plants produce pollen that is typically large and heavy, making it less conducive for movement by external agents. As a result, chalazogamy has evolved as an efficient reproductive strategy for these plants, ensuring successful fertilization even without the aid of outside forces.
Overall, chalazogamy is a distinctive reproductive mechanism in certain plants that allows for the fertilization and subsequent formation of seeds, contributing to the propagation and survival of various plant species.
Common Misspellings for CHALAZOGAMY
- xhalazogamy
- vhalazogamy
- fhalazogamy
- dhalazogamy
- cgalazogamy
- cbalazogamy
- cnalazogamy
- cjalazogamy
- cualazogamy
- cyalazogamy
- chzlazogamy
- chslazogamy
- chwlazogamy
- chqlazogamy
- chakazogamy
- chapazogamy
- chaoazogamy
- chalzzogamy
- chalszogamy
- chalwzogamy
Etymology of CHALAZOGAMY
The word "chalazogamy" originates from the combination of two Greek terms: "chalaza" and "gamy".
- "Chalaza" (χάλαζα) refers to a small white protuberance on each side of an egg yolk, serving to attach the yolk to the membrane enclosing it.
- "Gamy" (γαμy) comes from the Greek word "gamos" (γάμος), meaning "marriage" or "union".
Thus, "chalazogamy" combines these two components to describe the process of fertilization or sexual reproduction in plants where the pollen tube enters the ovule through the chalaza.
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