Seed Formation and Seed Dispersal: Structure, Function and Importance

Introduction To Seed Formation And Dispersal

Seeds are mature ovules that contain an embryonic plant together with a nutrition supply, all enclosed by a seed coat. They are responsible for plant propagation and thus support the continuation of the species and propagating genetic material. The seeds of plants in their cycle, therefore, provide survival during unfavourable times and germinate at the most opportune time.

Seed formation and dispersal are therefore important in ecological balance and maintenance of biodiversity. Seeds guarantee the survival of the plant species by making possible colonization in new areas and adaptation to new environments. Seeds in agriculture are vital for the production of crops for food security, hence offering human beings and animals a reliable source of food. Good seed dispersal mechanisms also drive the enhancement of genetic diversity in plant populations in their resilience and adaptability to natural ecosystems.

Seed Formation

The details are given below:

Structure Of A Flower

A flower comprises the main parts: the stamen, which is the male reproductive part that consists of anther and filament, and the pistil, the female part consisting of stigma, style, and ovary. There is also an ovule with an egg cell. There are also petals and sepals, which protect and attract pollinators.

Process Of Fertilisation

Fertilisation: This is the pollination in angiosperms, either self- or cross-pollination; here, double fertilisation occurs involving one sperm cell fertilising the egg to form the zygote and another from the endosperm.

Development Of Seed

The zygote develops into an embryo, accompanied by cotyledon and protective seed coat formation around it, giving rise to a mature seed ready for dispersal.

Types Of Seeds

Monocots have one cotyledon and parallel veins, while dicots have two cotyledons and net veins. Structurally, these differences, in most cases, affect the development of plants.

Seed Dispersal

Seed dispersal spreads the seeds away from the parent plant, thereby reducing the competition among them and aiding the colonization of new areas, thus serving diversity and survival.

Methods Of Seed Dispersal

• By Wind: Seeds are carried by the wind having adaptations such as wings.

• By Water: Floating seeds are dispersed by water bodies.

• By Animals: Seeds ingested or sticking to the fur are spread far and wide.

• By Explosion: Seeds are forcefully thrown out from the fruit.

• By Gravity (Barochory): Seeds fall to the ground due to gravity, often close to the parent plant.

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