selfpollinate

Self-pollination is a process in which pollen is transferred from the anther to the stigma of the same flower, or to another flower on the same plant. This can occur through various agents, including wind, water, or animals. In some cases, flowers can self-pollinate without any external assistance; this is known as autogamy.

Self-pollination is a form of sexual reproduction, as it involves the fusion of gametes. However, it is considered a less diverse form of reproduction compared to cross-pollination, where pollen is transferred between different plants. The offspring resulting from self-pollination are genetically identical to the parent plant, which can be advantageous in stable environments where the parent's traits are well-suited. However, it can also lead to a reduction in genetic variation, making the population more susceptible to diseases or environmental changes.

Many plants have evolved mechanisms to promote or prevent self-pollination. Some flowers are hermaphroditic, possessing both male and female reproductive organs, and may naturally self-pollinate. Other plants have developed strategies to ensure cross-pollination, such as having separate male and female flowers, or having different flowering times for their male and female parts. Dioecious plants, which have separate male and female plants, can only reproduce through cross-pollination. The extent to which a plant self-pollinates or cross-pollinates can have significant implications for its genetic diversity and evolutionary success.