Pollination

Main article: Pollination

Grains of pollen sticking to this bee will be transferred to the next flower it visits

The primary purpose of a flower is reproduction. Since the flowers are the reproductive organs of
plant, they mediate the joining of the sperm, contained within pollen, to the ovules — contained in
the ovary. Pollination is the movement of pollen from the anthers to the stigma. The joining of the
sperm to the ovules is called fertilization. Normally pollen is moved from one plant to another, but
many plants are able to self pollinate. The fertilized ovules produce seeds that are the next
generation. Sexual reproduction produces genetically unique offspring, allowing for adaptation.
Flowers have specific designs which encourages the transfer of pollen from one plant to another of
the same species. Many plants are dependent upon external factors for pollination, including: wind
and animals, and especially insects. Even large animals such as birds, bats, and pygmy
possums can be employed. The period of time during which this process can take place (the flower
is fully expanded and functional) is called anthesis. The study of pollination by insects is
called anthecology.