What is the disadvantage of cleistogamy?

The main disadvantage of cleistogamy is that it reduces genetic variation because it involves continuous self-pollination, which can lead to inbreeding depression over time.

Explanation

1. Lack of Genetic Diversity- Since cleistogamous flowers never open and always self-pollinate, there is no opportunity for cross-pollination. This results in seeds that are genetically identical to the parent plant, reducing genetic diversity in the population.
2. Inbreeding Depression- Continuous self-pollination leads to an accumulation of harmful recessive genes, reducing the plant’s overall vigor, adaptability, and resistance to diseases or environmental stress. This phenomenon is known as inbreeding depression.
3. No Evolution of New Varieties- Because there is no exchange of genetic material between different plants, the process limits the evolution of new species or improved genetic traits.