Summary
In angiosperms one sperm fertilises the egg and the other forms the triploid endosperm.
In depth
One sperm nucleus fuses with the egg (2n zygote) and the other with two polar nuclei (3n endosperm), which feeds the embryo. Discovered by Nawaschin in 1898.
The two sperm in a pollen tube fuse with two different female cells, an event unique to flowering plants. The endosperm gives nutrition for the embryo, offering a reproductive efficiency since the nutritive tissue forms only if fertilisation occurs.
Remember: endosperm is triploid (3n).
Frequently asked questions
What is Double Fertilisation?
In angiosperms one sperm fertilises the egg and the other forms the triploid endosperm.
Which area of biology covers Double Fertilisation, and how advanced is it?
Double Fertilisation is one of the 56 topics in Plant Biology. It is rated Intermediate, so it suits learners who already know the core vocabulary. Related topics in this area include Pollination, Alternation of Generations, Plant Phylogeny.
Can you give an example of Double Fertilisation?
Cereal endosperm is the grain we eat.
What should I learn before Double Fertilisation?
Work through the Beginner topics in Plant Biology first, such as Plant Kingdom, Photosynthesis, Chlorophyll, then return to Double Fertilisation. Intermediate topics assume the Beginner vocabulary.
What topics are related to Double Fertilisation?
The closest topics to Double Fertilisation are Pollination, Alternation of Generations, Plant Phylogeny, Plant Kingdom. Comparing them side by side is a good way to see how the ideas connect.
How can I check that I understand Double Fertilisation?
Read the summary and the in-depth section, then use the quick check on the interactive lesson for Double Fertilisation. To practise the whole of Plant Biology, use the Plant Biology quiz.
How is Double Fertilisation different from Pollination?
Double Fertilisation: In angiosperms one sperm fertilises the egg and the other forms the triploid endosperm. Pollination: Transfer of pollen from anther to stigma by wind, insects or other agents. Read both side by side and note what each one explains.
How should I study Double Fertilisation step by step?
First, read the summary and write the definition in your own words. Second, read the in-depth section and note any example. Third, compare it with Pollination and explain the difference aloud. Finally, take the Plant Biology quiz and come back to this page for any question you miss.