What is chasmogamous and cleistogamous?

Chasmogamous and cleistogamous are terms used to describe two different types of flowers based on their pollination mechanisms.

Chasmogamous Flowers
Definition: Chasmogamous flowers are those that open fully, allowing for cross-pollination.
Characteristics:
The flowers are typically larger and more conspicuous.
They expose their reproductive organs (stamens and pistils) to external pollinators like insects, birds, or the wind.
This type of pollination promotes genetic diversity as pollen from different plants can mix.
Cleistogamous Flowers
Definition: Cleistogamous flowers remain closed and self-pollinate without opening.
Characteristics:
These flowers are usually smaller and less showy.
Pollination occurs within the closed flower, ensuring self-fertilization.
This method is advantageous in stable environments where maintaining genetic consistency is beneficial.
It guarantees reproduction even in the absence of pollinators or under adverse conditions.
Examples
Chasmogamous Flowers: Common in plants like roses, lilies, and many wildflowers.
Cleistogamous Flowers: Found in plants like violets (Viola species), some grasses, and certain legumes.
Both chasmogamous and cleistogamous flowers represent adaptive strategies to maximize reproductive success under different environmental conditions.