Botany Paper II: Embryology of Angiosperms and Gymnosperm Morphology
1. Explain the structure and Development of Embryo Sac
In the context of the Rabindranath Tagore University (RTU), Hojai, botanical questions regarding embryology often require a detailed, step-by-step explanation of Megasporogenesis and Megagametogenesis.
Here is a comprehensive breakdown of the structure and development of the female gametophyte (Embryo Sac) in Angiosperms.
1. Development of the Embryo Sac (Megagametogenesis)
The process of embryo sac formation usually follows the Polygonum type (monosporic), which is the most common pattern in flowering plants.
The Megaspore Formation
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Starting Point: Inside the ovule's nucellus, a single cell differentiates into the Archesporial cell, which becomes the Megaspore Mother Cell (MMC).
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Meiosis: The MMC undergoes meiosis to produce a linear tetrad of four haploid megaspores.
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Degeneration: In most plants, the three megaspores toward the micropylar end degenerate, leaving only one functional megaspore at the chalazal end.
Nuclear Divisions
The functional megaspore expands and its nucleus undergoes three successive mitotic divisions without immediate cytokinesis:
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First Division: Produces 2 nuclei which move to opposite poles.
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Second Division: Produces 4 nuclei (2 at each pole).
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Third Division: Produces 8 nuclei (4 at each pole).
Cellular Organization
After the 8-nucleate stage, walls begin to form, organizing the cells into the final 7-celled, 8-nucleate structure.