Stigma is a part of the female reproductive system in flowering plants. It is the sticky, receptive surface at the top of the pistil, which is the female reproductive organ.
Here's how it works:
* Pollen: When pollen grains, which contain the male gametes, are transferred from the anther (male part of the flower) to the stigma, they land on its sticky surface.
* Germination: The stigma provides a moist environment for the pollen grains to germinate, sending down a pollen tube.
* Fertilization: The pollen tube grows down through the style (the stalk of the pistil) to reach the ovary, where the ovules (female gametes) are located. The sperm cells from the pollen grain then fertilize the ovules, leading to seed formation.
Essentially, the stigma is the landing pad for pollen and the gatekeeper for fertilization. It plays a crucial role in plant reproduction.
