Types of Tapetum
Based on developmental characteristics and functions, tapetum can be categorized into different types. Some of these types are discussed below:
- Secretory Tapetum: This kind of tapetum produces and secretes enzymes and nutrients, important for the formation and maturation of pollen grains.
- Plasmodial Tapetum: In this type, the cells of tapetum undergo several rounds of nuclear division without cytokinesis (division of cytoplasm), resulting in a multinucleate mass of cytoplasm called a plasmodium. This plasmodium’s primary function is to provide nourishment to the developing pollen grains.
- Glandular Tapetum: This type of tapetum secretes various substances that aid in the formation, nourishment, and maturation of pollen grains.
- Amoeboid or Plasmodial Tapetum– In this type, the cells of tapetum undergo several rounds of nuclear division without cytokinesis (division of cytoplasm), resulting in a multinucleate mass of cytoplasm called a plasmodium. This plasmodium’s primary function is to provide nourishment to the developing pollen grains.
- Amitotic Tapetum: In this type, the cells of the tapetum do not undergo mitotic divisions but provide essential nutrients and metabolites directly to the developing pollen grains.
- Binucleate Tapetum: In this type, the cells of the tapetum consist of two distinct nuclei, performing functions specific to the formation and maturation of pollen grains.
Tapetum – Types and Functions
The functions of tapetum entail the supply of nutrition and enzymes essential for the process of microsporogenesis and the successive development of pollen grains. This article discusses how the tapetum contributes significantly to the reproductive success of flowering plants, its types, and the functions it performs.
Table of Content
- What is Tapetum?
- Types of Tapetum
- Functions of Tapetum
- FAQs on Functions of Tapetum