How does a flowering plant's anther help its species survive?
It produces pollen for reproduction
It produces food for the plant
It anchors the plant in the ground
It helps the plant protect itself
The anther of a flowering plant plays a crucial role in the reproduction of the species, thus contributing to its survival. The anther is the male reproductive organ of the flower and is responsible for producing and releasing pollen grains.
Pollen grains contain the male gametes or sperm cells of the plant. When they are released from the anther, they may land on the stigma, which is the female receptive part of the flower. From there, the pollen grains travel through the style and reach the ovary, where fertilization takes place. This fertilization process leads to the formation of seeds, which develop into new plants.
By producing pollen, the anther enables the plant to reproduce and ensure the survival of its species. Without the production and distribution of pollen, flowering plants would not be able to reproduce sexually, limiting their ability to reproduce and propagate.