self-pollination

[ self-pol-uh-ney-shuhn, self- ]

noun

, Botany.

1. the transfer of pollen from the anther to the stigma of the same flower, another flower on the same plant, or the flower of a plant of the same clone.

self-pollination

noun

1. See cross-pollination
   the transfer of pollen from the anthers to the stigma of the same flower or of another flower on the same plant Compare cross-pollination

self-pollination

/ sĕlf′pŏl′ə-nā′shən /

1. The transfer of pollen from a male reproductive structure (an anther or male cone) to a female reproductive structure (a stigma or female cone) of the same plant or of the same flower. Self-pollination tends to decrease the genetic diversity (increase the number of homozygous individuals) in a population, and is much less common than cross-fertilization. Many species of plants have evolved mechanisms to promote cross-pollination and avoid self-pollination, though certain plants, such as the pea, regularly self-pollinate.
2. Compare cross-pollination

Derived Forms

• ˌself-ˈpolliˌnated, adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of self-pollination¹

First recorded in 1875–80

Example Sentences

The floral mechanism is both simple and effective, favouring cross-pollination, but ensuring self-pollination should that fail.

From Project Gutenberg

Pollination in most grasses is brought about by wind, though in a few cases self-pollination occurs.

From Project Gutenberg

He may then, as he pushes down after nectar, leave some pollen upon the pistil, thus assisting in self-pollination.

From Project Gutenberg

First the anthers must be carefully removed from the bud of the flower so as to eliminate all possibility of self-pollination.

From Project Gutenberg

Just as in some orchids and cleistogamic flowers self-pollination regularly occurs, so it may also occur in other cases.

From Project Gutenberg