The spelling of the word "pollentube" may seem confusing at first glance, but it can be broken down using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA). "Pollen" is spelled /ˈpɑ.lən/ which represents the sounds of "p," "o," "l," "e," and "n." "Tube" is spelled /tjuːb/ which represents the sounds of "t," "u," and "b." When combined, the two words form the word "pollentube," which refers to the tube-like structure that transports pollen in plants.
The term "pollentube" refers to a slender tubular structure that is formed by the pollen grain of a flowering plant during the process of fertilization. When a pollen grain lands on the stigma of a flower, it produces a downy growth called the pollen tube. This important structure serves as a conduit for the sperm cells to travel from the stigma, through the style, and ultimately reach the ovary where fertilization occurs.
The pollentube is characterized by its fine and elongated shape, often several times longer than the diameter of the pollen grain itself. It consists of a single elongated cell with a specialized tip that actively grows within the pistil of the plant, guided by various chemical cues and signals. The growth of the pollentube is a crucial step in the process of sexual reproduction in flowering plants, ensuring the delivery of male gametes to female gametes within the flower.
The structure of the pollentube is highly complex, involving dynamic changes in cell wall composition and cytoskeletal organization to facilitate its growth and penetration through the pistil tissues. It is equipped with several organelles and vesicles that provide the necessary energy and molecular cargo for the prolonged journey to the ovary. Once the pollentube reaches the ovary, it releases the sperm cells for fusion with the female gametes, leading to the development of seeds and fruits.
In summary, the pollentube is a specialized structure formed by pollen grains of flowering plants to transport sperm cells from the stigma to the ovary for successful fertilization.
The tube emitted by the pollen-grain after it is applied to the stigma.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "pollentube" is formed by combining two separate words: "pollen" and "tube".
1. Pollen: The word "pollen" comes from the Latin word "pollen", which means "fine flour or dust". It was first used in English in the mid-18th century.
2. Tube: The word "tube" originates from the Latin word "tubus", meaning "a pipe or tube". It has been in use in English since the mid-17th century.
When combined, "pollentube" refers to a small tube-like structure that aids in the fertilization process of plants by allowing pollen grains to reach the ovule for fertilization.