What is the Difference Between Autogamy and Geitonogamy?

The main difference between autogamy and geitonogamy lies in the level of genetic exchange and the flowers involved in the pollination process:

• Autogamy: This is a type of self-pollination where the pollen grains of an anther of a flower are deposited on the stigma of the same flower. It is observed in flowering plants and does not require external pollinating agents. Autogamy results in offspring that are genetically identical to their parents, with no genetic variation. Examples of plants pollinated by autogamy include Tridax, orchids, and sunflowers.
• Geitonogamy: This is a type of self-pollination that involves the transfer of pollen grains from the anther of one flower to the stigma of another flower on the same plant. It is considered a form of cross-pollination but maintains the genetic similarity between the offspring and their parents. Geitonogamy also results in offspring that are genetically identical to their parents, with no contribution to evolution. Plants with multiple flowers on a single stem are examples of geitonogamy.

In summary, autogamy involves self-pollination within a single flower, while geitonogamy involves the transfer of pollen between flowers on the same plant. Both processes result in offspring with little to no genetic variation.

Comparative Table: Autogamy vs Geitonogamy

The following table highlights the differences between autogamy and geitonogamy:

Both autogamy and geitonogamy result in offspring that are genetically identical to their parents. Autogamy is a self-pollination mechanism, while geitonogamy is a cross-pollination process but is genetically self-pollination. Both modes of pollination do not contribute to the evolution of the species.