Part 6/7:
Phyllotaxy and Foliar Nectaries
Some plants possess foliar nectaries on their leaves, which can secrete nectar to attract beneficial insects. These structures contribute to the plant's reproductive strategies by enhancing the visitation of pollinators or protective insects, thereby influencing successful fertilization and seed set.
Alternation of Generations in Spore Production
In addition to sexual reproduction, some plant species—particularly non-flowering plants like ferns—reproduce via spores. This method involves an alternation of generations, which occurs between a haploid generation (gametophyte) and a diploid generation (sporophyte). Spores are produced through meiosis, and upon germination, they lead to the formation of gametes, thereby enabling reproduction.