Bilobed Anther: Structure, Functions, FAQs, Theca

Definition Of Anther

The anther belongs to the stamen and is the organ for the production and storage of pollen grains in flowering plants. In this light, anthers are concerned with pollen transfer from one flower to another and, in turn, fertilisation in plant reproduction. In this regard, one bilobed anther structure with two distinct lobes, each lobe containing pollen sacs, is quite important in its efficiency for pollen release. This structure allows for maximum dispersal of pollen grains and thus offers a chance for successful pollination and an increase in the genetic diversity of plants.

Structure Of An Anther

The structure of the anther is described below-

Anther And Its Parts

The anther is that part of the stamen that bears pollen, and it is usually bilobed with two pollen sacs or microsporangia within each lobe.

Two lobes of anther

Within an anther, two lobes are connected using a connective tissue; each lobe is further subdivided into two microsporangia.

Anther Wall Layers

Epidermis

It is the outer protective layer of the anther that protects the inner tissues from the harsh conditions of the environment.

Endothecium

This layer is just inside the epidermis, which supplies the force for another dehiscence or opening, hence releasing the pollen.

Middle layers

It consists of a few layers of cells which help in providing structure support and also participate in the maturation of another.

Tapetum

This is the innermost single layer lining the anther wall that supplies nutrition to the developing pollen grains.

Microsporangia

Microsporangia are the pollen sacs in the anther, inside which microsporogenesis takes place for the formulation of microspores.

Development of microspores

Microsporogenesis - the process in which a diploid microsporocyte undergoes meiosis to yield haploid microspores.

Bilobed Nature of Anther

By bilobed structure, it means an anther that is divisional into two distinct lobes, wherein each of these lobes contains two microsporangia.

Importance of bilobed structure in pollen release

The above structure is specifically designed to let the pollen grains disperse from the anther for fertilisation.

Thecae

These anther lobes are further divided into two thecae, which act as the chambers for storing pollen.

Function and significance in pollen storage

The thecae will ensure the pollen is kept safe up to when it would have matured to be dispersed.

Connective Tissue

Connective tissue forms the centre of the anther, joining the two lobes together and containing vascular tissues that feed the anther.

Recommended video on "Bilobed Anther"