Pollen grains, the male gametophytes responsible for plant reproduction, are composed of two main layers: the exine and the intine. The exine forms the tough outer coat of the pollen grain, while the intine forms the inner layer.
Overview
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Pollen grains, the male gametophytes responsible for plant reproduction, are composed of two main layers: the exine and the intine. The exine forms the tough outer coat of the pollen grain, while the intine forms the inner layer.
The exine is the robust outermost layer of the pollen grain. It is composed of sporopollenin, a highly resilient polymer made up of phenolics, carotenoids, phenylpropanoids, and fatty acids. This robust layer protects the reproductive cells from injury and harsh environmental conditions.
The intine, on the other hand, is the softer inner layer of the pollen grain. It is composed of pectin and cellulose. The intine plays a crucial role in the maturation of the pollen grain and the germination of the pollen tube.
Exine | Intine |
Location | |
The outermost layer of the pollen grain. | The inner layer of the pollen grain, located next to the exine. |
Composition | |
Composed of sporopollenin. | Composed of pectin and cellulose. |
Function | |
Provides protection from harsh environmental conditions. | Assists in the maturation of pollen grain and germination of the pollen tube. |
Development | |
Developed with the assistance of the anther cell wall and tapetum. | Formed with the help of the microspore cytoplasm. |
Surface | |
Features ridges and grooves on its surface. | Does not have ridges and grooves. |
Resistance | |
Highly resistant. | Less resistant. |
Explore more about the fascinating world of plants here .
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