Chapter 21 Study Questions

Using labeled diagrams, compare and contrast the formation of the male and female gametophytes in angiosperms, and identify the major cell types involved.

Textbook Reference: Development of the Male and Female Gametophyte Generations, pp. 626–632
Describe six steps required for the delivery of sperm cells by the pollen tube to the female gametophyte.

Textbook Reference: Female Gametophyte Development in the Ovule, pp. 632–634
Describe the subcellular organization of the pollen tube and the molecular basis for regulation of tip growth.

Textbook Reference: Female Gametophyte Development in the Ovule, pp. 635–637.
What are LUREs and how were they discovered?

Textbook Reference: Female Gametophyte Development in the Ovule, pp. 637–638
Compare and contrast gametophytic versus sporophytic self-incompatibility. How do they differ at the biochemical level?

Textbook Reference: Selfing versus Outcrossing, pp. 640–643
Compare and contrast endosperm development in Arabidopsis and cereals.

Textbook Reference: Endosperm Development, pp. 643–646
What is imprinting and what role does it play in endosperm development?

Textbook Reference: Endosperm Development, pp. 647–649
What processes are involved in the acquisition of dessication tolerance in seeds?

Textbook Reference: Seed Maturation and Desiccation Tolerance, pp. 652–654
Describe the biochemical and cellular changes that occur during fruit ripening. What is the role of ethylene?

Textbook Reference: Seed Maturation and Desiccation Tolerance, pp. 657–659