In gymnosperms pollination is exclusively by
1 Anemophily
2 hydrophily
3 Zoophily
4 Malacophily

Options

A. Anemophily
B. Iilydrophily
C. Zoophily
D. Malacophily

Answer

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Understanding Gymnosperms**: Gymnosperms are a group of seed-producing plants that include conifers, cycads, Ginkgo, and gnetophytes. They are characterized by having seeds that are not enclosed in an ovary (unlike angiosperms).

2. **Pollination Mechanism**: In gymnosperms, the process of pollination involves the transfer of pollen grains from the male reproductive structure (microsporangium) to the female reproductive structure (megasporangium).

3. **Pollen Grain Formation**: The microspore develops into a male gametophyte, which is highly reduced and forms the pollen grain. This pollen grain must reach the megasporangium for fertilization to occur.

4. **Role of Wind in Pollination**: The transfer of pollen grains to the megasporangium is primarily facilitated by wind. This method of pollination is known as anemophily.

5. **Evaluating the Options**:
- **Option 1: Anemophily** - Correct. This is the process of pollination by wind, which is the exclusive method in gymnosperms.
- **Option 2: Hydrophily** - Incorrect. This refers to pollination by water, which is not applicable to gymnosperms.
- **Option 3: Zoophily** - Incorrect. This refers to pollination by animals, which is not a method used by gymnosperms.
- **Option 4: Malacophily** - Incorrect. This refers to pollination by snails, which is also not relevant to gymnosperms.

6. **Conclusion**: The only correct answer is Option 1: Anemophily, as gymnosperms exclusively rely on wind for pollination.

**Final Answer**: 1. Anemophily

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