Formation of fertilization cone?

The fertilization cone, also known as the pollen tube reception apparatus, is a structure that forms in the ovule of a flowering plant during fertilization. It is involved in the process of pollen tube guidance and reception.

The formation of the fertilization cone begins with the release of chemical signals from the ovule. These signals attract the pollen tube towards the ovule. The pollen tube is a structure that grows from the pollen grain and carries the male gametes (sperm cells) towards the female reproductive organs.

As the pollen tube approaches the ovule, it encounters the micropyle, which is a small opening in the ovule's integument. The micropyle acts as a guide for the pollen tube, directing it towards the embryo sac, where the female gametes (egg cells) are located.

Once the pollen tube reaches the embryo sac, it enters through an opening called the synergid filiform apparatus. This apparatus is composed of two synergid cells, which are specialized cells that help guide the pollen tube towards the egg cells.

The fertilization cone is formed by the fusion of the pollen tube with the synergid cells. This fusion allows the male gametes to be released into the embryo sac, where they can fertilize the egg cells. The fertilization cone also helps in the reception of the pollen tube, ensuring that the male gametes are delivered to the correct location for fertilization to occur.

Overall, the formation of the fertilization cone is a crucial step in the process of sexual reproduction in flowering plants, as it facilitates the guidance and reception of the pollen tube, leading to successful fertilization.