What is self-incompatibility? Why does self-pollination not lead to seed formation in self-incompatible species?
Explanation Self-incompatibility is the condition in which the pollen of a flower is unable to fertilize the stigma of that same flower or other flowers of the very same plant. It is a genetic condition which recognizes and rejects the genetically identical pollen. The process of pollen germination or pollen tube growth or ovule fertilization or embryo development are halted at any one of the various stages due to which no seeds are formed. Since the fusion of the male and the female gamete is absent, no seeds are formed. Final answer The process of self-incompatibility is genetically controlled. The gene in the pistil recognises the pollen of the same flower and immediately releases chemicals, thereby terminating the process of fertilization. The stage of termination may be different in different species. In some species, the pollen germination may be stopped. In others, the formation of the pollen tube may be hindered. Some species may cancel the process of ovule fertilization. In some species, all of the other processes may occur, but the embryo may not be allowed to develop.
