Answer: The gynoecium is considered the female reproductive organ in flowering plants because it contains the structures responsible for producing female gametes (eggs) and facilitating fertilization. These structures include the ovary, style, and stigma.
- Ovary: The ovary is the swollen base of the pistil where ovules are produced. Each ovule contains an egg cell, which is the female gamete. After fertilization, the ovary develops into a fruit containing seeds.
- Style: The style is a slender tube-like structure that connects the stigma to the ovary. It provides a pathway for pollen tubes to grow and deliver male gametes (sperm) to the ovules.
- Stigma: The stigma is the sticky or receptive surface at the top of the pistil. It captures pollen grains, which contain male gametes, and facilitates their germination and growth of pollen tubes for fertilization.
Explanation:
Together, these structures play essential roles in the female reproductive process of flowering plants, including the production of female gametes, reception of male gametes, and subsequent fertilization leading to seed and fruit development. Therefore, the gynoecium is termed the female reproductive organ.
