Question
Explain with examples of fragmentation and bulbil formation in plants.
Answer
Fragmentation and bulbil formation are two methods of vegetative reproduction in plants. Here’s an explanation of each with an example:
- Fragmentation: In fragmentation, a piece of the plant breaks off, and each piece can grow into a new individual. For example, some species of algae can reproduce by fragmentation. When a filament of the alga breaks, each fragment can develop into a new filament, which is genetically identical to the parent plant.
- Bulbil Formation: In bulbil formation, small bulbs or bulb-like structures develop on the stem or leaves of a plant. These bulbils can grow into new plants when they detach from the parent plant and fall to the ground. For example, some species of garlic and onion produce bulbils that can be used to propagate new plants.
