7.03 Reproduction of Plants

Time to Reflect

For a species to be successful it must be able to reproduce. Plants have the added challenge of needing to reproduce without being capable of moving to find a mate. They rely on the forces of nature to spread pollen, and then fertilize spores and seeds. If all plants just dropped seeds there would not be enough resources like water, nutrients, and light for them to survive. Plants have adapted ways to attract animals and to use the wind or water to help with their dispersion.

• The flower is the reproductive organ of the flowering plant.
• Pollination can occur by insects, birds, bats, wind, or water.
• Pollination results in fertilization of the ovum and production of seeds.

Tour Debrief

You have completed this activity if you have:

• added the new terms and their meanings to your Module 7 Glossary Sheet
• completed the Flower Dissection lab and are prepared to submit your Lab Report
• completed the investigation of flower parts and pollination, and have put the information in your Travel Log