Polline is a substance that plays a vital role in the reproductive cycle of plants, particularly in the process of pollination. It refers to the fine, powdery, yellowish or whitish grains that are produced by the male part of a flower, called the anther. These tiny grains serve as the carriers of plant sperm cells or male gametes.
Polline is typically made up of microscopic, elongated structures called pollen grains. These grains are usually enclosed within a tough outer shell known as the exine, which aids in protecting the genetic material inside. The exine often exhibits distinctive patterns and sculpturing that are characteristic to each plant species, facilitating its identification.
The main role of polline is to transport male gametes from the anther to the stigma, the female reproductive part of a flower. This transport generally occurs through various means, including wind, insects, birds, or other animals. The pollen grains adhere to the stigma's surface, where they germinate and grow pollen tubes that allow the transfer of male gametes to the ovule. This process eventually leads to fertilization, enabling the formation of seeds and the continuation of plant life cycles.
In addition to its importance in plant reproduction, polline can also cause allergies in humans and animals. When inhaled or come into contact with sensitive individuals, it can trigger allergic reactions such as hay fever. Various factors, including environmental conditions and pollen count, can influence the severity and prevalence of pollen allergies during certain times of the year.
