Lesson 6- Sexual Reproduction

Objective

In the end of the lesson, you will be able to distinguish the ways by which plants and animals reproduce
sexually.

Lesson Proper

Sexual Reproduction is a form of reproduction that involves two parents. Humans (and all animals that
reproduce sexually) have reproductive cells called gametes. Gametes are formed during meiosis, in the form of
sperm (produced within the testes of males) or eggs (produced within in the ovaries of females). Meiosis in sperm
cell is called spermatogenesis. Meiosis in egg cell is called oogenesis. Under favorable conditions, sperm and egg
cell unite in a process known as fertilization. The resulting fertilized egg, or zygote, contains genes from both
parents. Hence, the offspring have unique combinations of genes. Offspring of sexual reproduction differ genetically
from their siblings and species extinction is highly unlikely.

The gametes formed by meiosis are haploid (N), which means they contain only one set of chromosomes.
Humans have 46 chromosomes. Half of these chromosomes (23) are from the father and the other half are from the
mother. So, humans have diploid (2N) number of chromosomes or two sets of homologous chromosomes. The
chromosomes the genes that determine hereditary characteristics.
Internal development is a protective mechanism that ensures and increases the chances of the zygote’s survival
since the mother supplies everything that the zygote needs for its development.

Parts of a Gumamela Flower

A. Sterile Parts/ Non-Essential parts of a Flower- these parts are for support and help in attracting insects for
pollination.

1. Calyx- is a collection of sepals. It is green, leaf-like structures that cover and protects the rest of the
flower. They also support the other parts when the bud opens.

2. Corolla- is found inside the calyx. It usually consists of one or more petals. These are often, but not
always bright-colored. Corolla together with calyx frequently attracts insects. They may also help
protect the inner part of the flowers.

3. PEDUNCLE/ PEDICEL- stalk that attaches the flower to the stem.

4. Receptacle- bulging extensions of the pedicel

B. Essential Parts or the Reproductive Parts

1. Stamen- the male reproductive part of the flower and is collectively called as androecium. It consists of
the following:

a. Filament - the slender stalk

b. Anther - a knoblike structure located at the tip of the filament that produces colored pollen
grains. Pollen contains sperm nuclei, which is essential for reproduction.

2. Pistil - the female reproductive part of the flower and is collectively called as gynoecium. Pistil is also
known as carpel. It is usually flask-shaped and consists of the following:

a. Stigma - expanded tip of the style and is usually sticky which receive the pollen grains
b. Style - long, slender stalk which supports the stigma
c. Ovary - a swollen base where the style ends and that bears the ovules. The ovules will later
become seeds.