Seef Dispersal is a Vital Step in Plant Reproduction
- The journey of a dandelion seed traveling far from its parent plant to find a suitable spot to grow is called seed dispersal.
- This is a vital step in plant reproduction, ensuring the survival and spread of the species.
- Combined with germination, it sets the stage for the growth of the next generation.
Seed dispersal
Seed dispersal is the process by which seeds are transported away from the parent plant to new locations, reducing competition for resources and increasing the likelihood of successful germination and growth.
Seed Dispersal And Pollination Occur at Different Stages and Serve Distinct Purposes
| Seed Dispersal | Pollination |
|---|---|
| Moves seeds to new locations. | Transfers pollen for fertilization. |
| Occurs after fertilization. | Occurs before fertilization. |
| Methods: wind, water, animals, explosion. | Methods: wind, animals, water. |
Think of seed dispersal as the "move-out stage" of the plant life cycle and pollination as the "courtship" phase.
NoteSeed dispersal and pollination are distinct but interconnected processes in the plant life cycle.
Methods of Seed Dispersal
1. Wind Dispersal
Seeds are light and aerodynamic, allowing them to travel long distances.
ExampleCoconut seeds can drift across oceans to colonize new islands.
2. Water Dispersal
Seeds adapted for water dispersal can float and survive for extended periods.
Coconut seeds have a buoyant, fibrous husk that allows them to drift across oceans and colonize distant islands.
3. Animal Dispersal
Animals play a major role by eating fruits and excreting seeds far from the parent plant or by carrying seeds on their fur.
ExampleBirds disperse berries' seeds after consuming the fruit, while burrs attach to animal fur for transport.
4. Explosive Mechanisms
Some plants eject their seeds forcefully.
The jewelweed plant can shoot seeds several meters away.
TipConsider the environment where a plant grows. This often provides clues about its dispersal strategy.
