Flowers pollinated by wind often have

Options

A. large and feathery stigma
B. long stamens and pistils
C. small number of pollen grains
D. less exposed anthers

Answer

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Understanding Wind Pollination**: Wind pollination, also known as anemophily, is a process where pollen is transferred from the male parts of a flower to the female parts by the wind. This type of pollination is common in certain plants.

2. **Analyzing the Options**: The question provides four options regarding the characteristics of flowers that are pollinated by wind:
- Large and feathery stigma
- Long stamens and pistils
- Small number of pollen grains
- Less exposed anthers

3. **Identifying Key Features of Wind-Pollinated Flowers**:
- **Large and Feathery Stigma**: This feature is crucial as it helps to capture airborne pollen grains effectively. The feathery structure increases the surface area for better pollen capture.
- **Long Stamens and Pistils**: While long stamens can help in releasing pollen into the air, they are not a defining feature of wind-pollinated flowers.
- **Small Number of Pollen Grains**: Wind-pollinated flowers typically produce a large number of pollen grains to increase the chances of successful pollination.
- **Less Exposed Anthers**: Wind-pollinated flowers usually have exposed anthers to release pollen into the air.

4. **Conclusion**: Based on the analysis, the most characteristic feature of flowers that are pollinated by wind is having a **large and feathery stigma**. This adaptation helps in trapping the pollen grains effectively.

**Final Answer**: Flowers pollinated by wind often have **large and feathery stigma**.

---