What is the Difference Between Self Pollination and Cross Pollination?

The main difference between self-pollination and cross-pollination lies in the source of pollen and the genetic diversity it yields. Here are the key differences:

Self-Pollination:

• Occurs when pollen from the anther is deposited on the stigma of the same flower or another flower on the same plant.
• Requires simultaneous maturation of stigma and anther.
• Produces limited amounts of pollen grains.
• Increases genetic uniformity and decreases genetic variation.
• Causes inbreeding and reduces the gene pool.
• Examples of self-pollinating plants include wheat, barley, oats, rice, tomatoes, potatoes, apricots, and peaches.

Cross-Pollination:

• Involves the transfer of pollen from the anther of one flower to the stigma of another flower on a different individual of the same species.
• Requires anther and stigma to mature at different times.
• Produces large amounts of pollen grains.
• Decreases genetic uniformity and increases genetic variation.
• Causes outbreeding and maintains the gene pool.
• Examples of cross-pollinating plants include strawberries, grapes, raspberries, tulips, apples, plums, pears, daffodils, and more.

Cross-pollination is generally more advantageous than self-pollination, as it promotes genetic diversity and leads to greater genetic variation within a species. On the other hand, self-pollination produces more uniform offspring and does not require energy investment in attracting pollinators.

Comparative Table: Self Pollination vs Cross Pollination

Here is a table comparing self-pollination and cross-pollination:

Self-pollination occurs when the pollen from the anther of a flower is deposited on the stigma of the same flower or different flowers of the same plant. This process does not require pollinators and can lead to more uniform progeny, with reduced genetic diversity. Examples of self-pollinating plants include peas, beans, tomatoes, wheat, barley, and rice.

Cross-pollination, on the other hand, involves the transfer of pollen from the anther of one flower to the stigma of another flower on a different plant of the same species. This process increases genetic diversity, resulting in unique offspring. Cross-pollination requires pollinators, such as insects or wind, for the transfer of pollen. Examples of cross-pollinating plants include apples, daffodils, pumpkins, grasses, strawberries, and raspberries.