NCERT · Class 12 · Biology · Sexual Reproduction in Flowering PlantsWhat is the function of the tapetum in anthers?

The tapetum is the innermost nutritive layer of the microsporangium wall in angiosperm anthers. Its primary function is to provide essential nourishment to the developing microspore mother cells and growing pollen grains. Furthermore, tapetal cells secrete sporopollenin, a highly resistant organic material that forms the outer exine layer of pollen grains, protecting them from harsh environmental conditions. They also synthesize ubisch bodies, callase enzymes to separate microspore tetrads, and proteins responsible for pollen-pistil interaction.