Final answer:
Self-pollination happens within the same plant, while cross-pollination occurs between different plants of the same species, the answer being a) Self-pollination; cross-pollination. Self-pollination leads to less genetic diversity, whereas cross-pollination results in greater genetic variation and increased survivability of the species.
Step-by-step explanation:
Self-pollination occurs within a single plant, while cross-pollination occurs between two plants. The correct answer is a) Self-pollination; cross-pollination.
Self-pollination happens when the pollen from the anther of a flower is deposited on the stigma of the same flower or another flower on the same plant. This method requires less energy investment from the plant and often leads to less genetic diversity since the offspring result from the same plant's genetic material.
Cross-pollination, on the other hand, involves the transfer of pollen from the anther of one flower to the stigma of another flower on a different plant of the same species. It usually requires pollinators like bees or butterflies or other agents like wind or water. Cross-pollination increases genetic diversity, which is beneficial for the survivability of a species in changing environments.