Question: 121: Given below are two statements :
Statement I :
Cleistogamous flowers are invariably autogamous
Statement II:
Cleistogamy is disadvantageous as there is no chance for cross pollination
In the light of the above statements, choose the correct answer from the options given below:
(1) Statement I is correct but Statement II is incorrect
(2) Statement I is incorrect but Statement II is correct
(3) Booth Statement I and Statement II are correct
(4) Both Statement I and Statement II are incorrect
Answer: Option (3)
Explanation:
Cleistogamous flowers are flowers that do not open at all.
Since these flowers remain closed, pollination occurs within the same flower,
leading to self-pollination.
Therefore, cleistogamous flowers are invariably autogamous,
making Statement I correct.
Cleistogamy prevents the entry of pollen from other flowers,
so there is no possibility of cross-pollination.
This lack of genetic variation due to absence of cross-pollination is considered a disadvantage.
Hence, Statement II is also correct.
Therefore, both Statement I and Statement II are correct,
corresponding to Option (3).