When a plant blocks fertilization after recognizing pollen as genetically related,this is called:

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Self-incompatibility is the mechanism by which some plants prevent self-fertilization by recognizing when pollen is genetically related. This allows for outcrossing, or fertilization between unrelated individuals, which promotes genetic diversity and reduces the risk of inbreeding depression. Choice B, self-fertilization, and D, self-pollination, both refer to the plant fertilizing itself, which is not the case in self-incompatibility. Choice C, outcrossing, is mentioned in the explanation but is not the specific term for the mechanism described in the question.

When a Plant Blocks Fertilization After Recognizing Pollen as Genetically