Pollen tube are tolerant and even pollen damaged by X-rays and gamma rays can still grow pollen tubes. The interaction between the stigma-style and the pollen grain is a vital piece that contributes to the growth. The elongation of the tube is achieved with elongation of the cytoskeleton and it extends from the tip, which is regulated by high levels of calcium in the cytosol. The calcium levels help the synaptic vesicles in the membranes grow and extend at the tip. Polypeptides found in the style also regulate growth of tube and specific peptides that play a role in signaling for growth
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).