Pollen tube by recognition and hydration of the pollen that allows for germination of the tube and ultimate growth. In the pollen grain, the generative cell gives rise to the sperm, whereas the vegetative cells have a tube cell that grows the pollen tube. There is competition in this step as many pollen grains may compete to reach the egg. The stigma plays a role in guiding the sperm to a receptive ovule, in the case of many ovules. Only compatible pollen grains are allowed to grow as determined by signaling with the stigma. Some plants have mechanisms in place to prevent
Diaspore (botany) Diaspore (botany) In botany, a diaspore is a plant dispersal unit consisting of a seed or spore plus any additional tissues that assist dispersal. In some seed plants, the diaspore is a seed and fruit together, or a seed and elaiosome. In a few seed plants, the diaspore is most or all of the plant, and is known as a tumbleweed. Diaspores are common in weedy and ruderal species. Collectively, diaspores, seeds, and spores that have been modified for migration are known as "disseminules". A diaspore of seed plus elaiosome is a common adaptation to seed dispersal by ants (myrmecochory).