Male cone of cycas

Male Cone of Cycas (Diagram with Comments)

The male cone (strobilus) of Cycas is a reproductive structure that produces pollen. Below is a detailed explanation of the diagram, followed by key annotations.

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Description of Male Cone of Cycas

1. Structure

• The male cone is a large, compact, cylindrical structure.
• It consists of a central axis bearing numerous microsporophylls arranged in a spiral pattern.

1. Microsporophylls

• These are flattened, leaf-like structures attached to the central axis.
• Each microsporophyll contains microsporangia (pollen sacs) on the lower (abaxial) side.
• The sporangia are grouped in sori and release pollen grains after dehiscence.

1. Microsporangia (Pollen Sacs)

• These sacs produce microspores (pollen grains) by meiosis.
• The pollen grains are carried by wind to the female cone for fertilization.

1. Central Axis

• A thick stalk that serves as the backbone for the male cone, supporting the microsporophylls.

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Function of the Male Cone in Cycas

The male cone produces and releases pollen grains that are carried by wind to the ovules in the female cone, leading to fertilization.

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Diagram of Male Cone of Cycas

• Central Axis: Label the vertical stalk supporting the structure.
• Microsporophylls: Spiral leaves bearing sporangia.
• Microsporangia (Pollen Sacs): Found in clusters under the microsporophylls.

(Please refer to biology textbooks or search online for “Male Cone of Cycas Diagram” to view or draw an accurate image based on these descriptions.)

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This structure reflects the cone’s role in the gymnosperm reproduction system, where pollination and fertilization occur without flowers, and seeds develop directly on the female cone.