A characteristic of wind pollinated flowers is

Options

A. Feathery exserted stigma
B. Feathery inserted stigma
C. Narrow exserted stigma
D. Narrow inserted stigma.

Answer

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Understanding Wind Pollination:**
- Wind-pollinated flowers are adapted to utilize wind as a means of transferring pollen from the male parts (anthers) to the female parts (stigmas) of flowers.

2. **Characteristics of Wind Pollinated Flowers:**
- These flowers are generally small and inconspicuous.
- They lack bright colors and petals, as these features are not necessary for attracting pollinators.
- They do not produce nectar, which is typically used to attract insects.

3. **Stigma Characteristics:**
- The stigma of wind-pollinated flowers is often feathery or branched. This structure increases the surface area and helps in effectively trapping pollen grains carried by the wind.
- The stigma is usually exerted, meaning it is positioned outside the flower, allowing it to catch pollen more efficiently.

4. **Exerted vs. Inserted Stigma:**
- An exerted stigma is one that extends out of the flower, making it more accessible to airborne pollen.
- An inserted stigma is positioned inside the flower, which is less effective for wind pollination.

5. **Conclusion:**
- Based on the characteristics discussed, the correct answer is that a characteristic of wind-pollinated flowers is a "feathery exerted stigma."

**Final Answer:**
The characteristic of wind-pollinated flowers is a feathery exerted stigma.

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