Question

1. Briefly discuss seed dispersal methods employed by plants.

2. Discuss the differences between dicots’ and monocots’ seeds. How do these differences affect the ways in which we use their seeds?

Answer 1

1. Seed dispersal methods:
a. Seeds dispersed by wind are light in weight and often possess appendages such as hairs and wings
Ex: Dandelion and Sycamore
b. Seeds dispersed by water are often large and light in weight. They float on water (Buoyancy).
Ex: Nymphaea
c. Ballistic dispersal due to turgor pressure
Ex: Cardamine hirsuta
d. Seed dispersal by animals: Presence of hooks and gelatinous secretions
Ex: Trifolium angustifolium

2.
Monocot seed:
Single thin cotyledon that lacks food material
Presence of abundant endosperm with food reserves.
Ex: Maize

Dicot seed:
Two thick bulgy cotyledons
Absence or Sparse endosperm.
Ex: Beans

Seeds of cereals such as rice and wheat contain stored food materials. Hence we consume them for our energy needs.