Pollen grains, the male gametophytes responsible for plant reproduction, are composed of two main layers: the exine and the intine. The exine forms the tough outer coat of the pollen grain, while the intine forms the inner layer.
Difference Between Exine and Intine - Testbook.com
Last Updated on Jul 31, 2023
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Defining the Exine
The exine is the robust outermost layer of the pollen grain. It is composed of sporopollenin, a highly resilient polymer made up of phenolics, carotenoids, phenylpropanoids, and fatty acids. This robust layer protects the reproductive cells from injury and harsh environmental conditions.
Understanding the Intine
The intine, on the other hand, is the softer inner layer of the pollen grain. It is composed of pectin and cellulose. The intine plays a crucial role in the maturation of the pollen grain and the germination of the pollen tube.
Exine vs Intine: A Comparison
| Exine | Intine |
| Location | |
| The outermost layer of the pollen grain. | The inner layer of the pollen grain, located next to the exine. |
| Composition | |
| Composed of sporopollenin. | Composed of pectin and cellulose. |
| Function | |
| Provides protection from harsh environmental conditions. | Assists in the maturation of pollen grain and germination of the pollen tube. |
| Development | |
| Developed with the assistance of the anther cell wall and tapetum. | Formed with the help of the microspore cytoplasm. |
| Surface | |
| Features ridges and grooves on its surface. | Does not have ridges and grooves. |
| Resistance | |
| Highly resistant. | Less resistant. |
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the function of exine and intine?
Exine functions as a protective layer for the pollen grain and the intine helps in the germination of the pollen tube.
What are intine and exine made up of?
Intine is made up of pectin and cellulose and exine is made up of sporopollenin.
What is called exine?
The outer layer of a pollen grain is called exine.
What is intine in pollen?
Intine is the inner layer of pollen grain which helps in its development and germination.
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