Spider lily flower anther. Coloured scanning electron micrograph (SEM) of crystals (white) and pollen (yellow) in a spider lily flower (Hymenocallis sp.) anther. Anthers are part of a plant's male reproductive system. They produce and release the male gametes (sex cells), pollen grains. The pollen grains fertilise ovaries, the female gametes. It is thought these crystals form at the same time as the pollen and that they play a role in dehiscence, the opening of the anther to release the pollen. Magnification: x4300 when printed at 10 centimetres wide.