Florida Biology EOC Practice Test

What is the function of the stigma in a flower?

1. Provides support for the flower

2. Produces pollen

3. Stores nectar

4. Traps pollen

The correct answer is: Traps pollen

The stigma's primary function in a flower is to trap pollen. It is the receptive part of the female reproductive structure known as the pistil. When pollen from the male anthers lands on the stigma, it can lead to fertilization, which is essential for the production of seeds. The stigma is typically sticky or feathery in texture, which aids in capturing and holding onto pollen grains. In the context of other options, the supportive structures of a flower, like the stem or peduncle, are responsible for providing physical support. Pollen is produced by the anthers, which are part of the male reproductive system, not the stigma. While some flowers do produce nectar to attract pollinators, this function is typically performed by glandular structures near the base of the flower, not the stigma itself.