Which type of plant relies on animal vectors for pollination?

Cucumbers are a prime example of plants that rely on animal vectors, particularly insects like bees, for pollination. These animals are attracted to the flowers by nectar and pollen, facilitating the transfer of pollen from the male parts of the flower (anthers) to the female parts (stigma). This interaction is crucial for sexual reproduction in cucumbers, leading to fruit development.

In contrast, wheat, rice, and barley are primarily pollinated by the wind, making them examples of anemophilous plants. These grasses have evolved features that allow for efficient pollen dispersal through the air, such as lightweight pollen and flowers that are not visually attractive to pollinators. Consequently, they do not rely on animals to complete their reproductive processes, highlighting the distinct pollination strategies among different plant species.