Korspollination

Korspollination is a term used to describe the fertilization of a flower's ovule by pollen from a different flower. This is a crucial process in sexual reproduction for many plants, as it promotes genetic diversity within a species. Korspollination can occur between flowers on the same plant, known as geitonogamy, or between flowers on different plants, referred to as allogamy. The latter is considered true korspollination as it involves genetic material from distinct individuals.

Plants have evolved various mechanisms to facilitate korspollination. These include attracting pollinators such as insects, birds, or bats with visual cues like bright petals and olfactory signals like fragrances, or through wind dispersal of pollen. Cross-pollinating plants often exhibit adaptations to prevent self-pollination, such as having male and female reproductive organs mature at different times, or possessing self-incompatibility systems that prevent pollen from germinating on its own stigma.

The outcome of korspollination is the production of seeds, which, when viable, can grow into new plants. The genetic variation introduced through korspollination can lead to offspring with enhanced resilience to environmental changes, diseases, and pests, contributing to the long-term survival and evolution of plant populations. Understanding korspollination is vital for agriculture, particularly in the cultivation of crops that rely on cross-pollination for fruit and seed production.