Description Understanding how plants are pollinated is crucial for new crop development, as successful breeding and fruit production usually depend on pollination. This image shows a stamen on a male flower head of an Artocarpus lanceifolius tree. Native to Southeast Asia, this species produces large tasty fruits but is not widely cultivated. In the image, the anther (top) has opened, releasing pollen grains (colored yellow). Underneath the anther are spur-like hairs, whose significance is not yet known. Artocarpus lanceifolius, with no apparent sticky coating on its pollen grains and no known flower scent, may be wind pollinated. But, Gardner and his colleagues will need to collect more data to know for sure.Technique: Scanning electron microscopy, false coloring
Science In Society Northwestern University's Recent Work
About the artist
Science In Society Northwestern University Member Since November 2013 Artist Statement Science in Society is a Northwestern University research center dedicated to science outreach and public engagement.
These images stem from cutting-edge research on campus, winning our annual Scientific Images Contest which goes on display in galleries across Chicago.
Through partnerships with schools and community groups, we train Northwestern researchers to share their expertise and creativity in a community centered way. Sales from these images goes to support our education and outreach activities, connecting researchers to the wider community.