Which flower part is responsible for producing and releasing pollen?

The anther is a critical part of a flower's reproductive system, specifically located at the top of the stamen, which is the male reproductive organ of the flower. The primary function of the anther is to produce and release pollen, the male gametes in flowering plants. Pollen grains are formed within the anther's pollen sacs, and when the anther matures, it bursts open to disperse the pollen into the air, allowing it to be carried to the female parts of the flower, or to other flowers, facilitating the process of fertilization.

In contrast, the pistil, which is the female reproductive part of the flower, is responsible for receiving pollen, and does not produce it. The stamen, while it includes the anther and is part of the male reproductive system, does not solely denote the part that produces pollen—the anther is specifically responsible for that function. Petals serve mainly as attractants to pollinators and do not play a direct role in the production or release of pollen. Understanding the roles of these flower parts helps in comprehending the complex process of plant reproduction.