The difference between Actinomorphic and Zygomorphic flowers is based on floral symmetries. Floral symmetry means how any flower can be divided or split into two identical (mirror-image) parts. Floral symmetry is important because it helps us understand the pattern of evolution in various flowers. In this article, we will study the difference between Actinomorphic and zygomorphic flowers and the importance of flower symmetry.
Table of Content
Floral Symmetry
Floral symmetry means how any flower can be split into two identical or mirror-image parts. This mainly depends on the shape and position of a flower's perianth, petals and androecium. In nature, angiosperms exhibit mainly three types of floral symmetry. They are:
- Asymmetric flowers - has no symmetry
- Actinomorphic flowers or flowers with radial symmetry
- Zygomorphic flowers or flowers with bilateral symmetry
Actinomorphic Flowers
Actinomorphic flowers are flowers that exhibit radial symmetry. These flowers can be split into two mirror-image parts by any vertical plane that passes through the centre of the flower. Most flowers in nature exhibit radial symmetry. The floral parts of such flowers are equal in size and hence these flowers are also known as regular flowers. This type of symmetry is a primitive or basal character of angiosperms.
Actinomorphic flowers typically have parts arranged in a circular or star-like pattern around a central point. Actinomorphic flower symmetry is often considered as an adaptation, as pollinators like bees and butterflies, can approach the flower from any direction.
Actinomorphic Flowers Example: Lily, Buttercup, Datura, Chilli, Mustard etc.
Zygomorphic Flowers
These flowers exhibit bilateral symmetry. It means zygomorphic flowers can be split into two identical or mirror-image parts by one single vertical plane. The floral parts of these flowers are unequal in shape and size. So they are known as irregular flowers. Zygomorphic flowers often have specialized adaptations for pollination, such as specific shapes, colors, or structures that attract particular pollinators.
The bilateral symmetry of these flowers allows for efficient interaction with specialized pollinators, such as bees or birds, as they approach the flower from a particular direction.
Examples: Orchids, peas, jasmine, Beans etc.
Also Read: Difference Between Cross-Pollination And Self Pollination
Difference Between Actinomorphic and Zygomorphic Flowers
The difference between actinomorphic and zygomorphic flowers is mainly based on various floral symmetries that are exhibited by angiosperms. Several differences between such flowers are mentioned below:
Characters | Actinomorphic Flowers | Zygomorphic Flowers |
|---|---|---|
Definition | These flowers can be split into two mirror-image parts by any vertical plane that passes through the centre of the flower. | Zygomorphic flowers can be split into two identical or mirror-image parts by one single vertical plane. |
Floral Symmetry | These flowers exhibit radial symmetry. | These flowers exhibit bilateral symmetry. |
Size of floral parts | Floral parts of these flowers are equal in shape and size. | Floral parts of these flowers are equal in shape and size. |
Other name | These flowers are popularly known as regular flowers. | These flowers are popularly known as irregular flowers. |
Mirror Image | A mirror image or two identical halves in such flowers can be obtained by any vertical plane. | A mirror image or two identical halves in such flowers can be obtained by only one vertical plane. |
Feature of Angiosperms | Radial symmetry is a primitive feature of angiosperms. | Bilateral symmetry is a derived character of angiosperm. |
Examples | Lily, Buttercup, Datura, Chilli, Mustard etc. | Orchids, peas, jasmine, Beans etc. |
Conclusion - Difference Between Actinomorphic and Zygomorphic Flowers
Angiosperms or flowering plants exhibit various floral symmetry. Some flowers are asymmetric which means they do not exhibit any symmetry in their floral parts. The difference between actinomorphic and zygomorphic flowers are discussed here. Actinomorphic flowers exhibit radial symmetry. They are regular flowers and their floral parts are equal in shape and size. Zygomorphic flowers exhibit bilateral symmetry. The floral parts of these flowers are unequal in size and hence these flowers are popularly known as irregular flowers.
Also Read: