Most flowering plants can achieve pollination in several different ways. Those that produce pollen and carpels on the same plant may be self-pollinated, but they may also be cross-pollinated by insects or other pollinators. The cape gooseberry (Physalis peruviana) shown here is able to produce seed whether it is self- or cross-pollinated. Is one type of pollination better for reproductive success than the other? In general, larger fruits tend to earn higher profits for farmers who grow cape gooseberries as a crop. Compared to self-pollinated flowers, what is the approximate percentage of difference in fruit size of bee-pollinated flowers?

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the question. The question is asking whether one type of pollination (self-pollination or cross-pollination) is better for reproductive success in cape gooseberries, and what the approximate percentage difference in fruit size is between self-pollinated and bee-pollinated flowers.
2. Step 2: Research the reproductive biology of cape gooseberries. This will involve looking up scientific studies or articles that have investigated the effects of different types of pollination on the fruit size and reproductive success of this plant.
3. Step 3: Analyze the data. Once you have found relevant information, you will need to interpret it to answer the question. If the data shows that bee-pollinated flowers produce larger fruits, calculate the percentage difference in size compared to self-pollinated flowers.
4. Step 4: Formulate your answer. Based on your research and analysis, determine whether one type of pollination is more beneficial for the reproductive success of cape gooseberries, and what the percentage difference in fruit size is between self-pollinated and bee-pollinated flowers.
5. Step 5: Review your answer. Make sure that your answer is based on the data you found and that you have explained your reasoning clearly.