sekatotrofisia

Seksotropija refers to a phenomenon in botany where a plant is capable of self-pollination but also benefits from or requires cross-pollination for optimal reproduction. This means that while a plant's pollen can fertilize its own ovules, it may produce more seeds, larger seeds, or more viable offspring when pollinated by pollen from a different individual of the same species. The term is derived from the Greek words "seksos" (self) and "tropos" (turn or way), indicating a dual approach to reproduction.

Plants exhibiting seksotropija have evolved mechanisms to balance self-pollination and cross-pollination. This can include genetic self-incompatibility systems that prevent self-fertilization under certain conditions, or physiological factors that favor pollen from other plants. The advantage of this strategy lies in its flexibility. Self-pollination ensures reproduction even if pollinators are scarce or absent, providing a reliable fallback mechanism. However, the genetic diversity introduced through cross-pollination can lead to offspring better adapted to environmental changes and reduce the risk of inbreeding depression. Many flowering plants, including some species of apples, cherries, and clovers, display characteristics of seksotropija. Understanding this reproductive strategy is important for plant breeding, agriculture, and conservation efforts.