Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris) pollen grain. Science Image

Ref: 80200184



Scots pine tree pollen grain. Coloured scanning electron micrograph (SEM) of Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris) pollen grain. The pollen grain consist of a base with two air-filled, wing-like bladders, which are extensions of the pollen grain's wall. These wings help the wind-dispersed pollen to float on air. Each pollen grain contains a male gamete that is intended to fertilise ovules or eggs of another flower, initiating the formation of a seed. Magnification: x1740 when printed 10 centimetres wide.