Dispersal by Wind
Dispersal by wind is a common means of seed dispersal for many plant species. The wind can carry seeds over long distances, allowing plants to colonize new areas and expand their range. Here are some examples of dispersal by wind:

Dandelion Seeds
- Dandelion seeds have a structure called a pappus, which acts like a parachute. When the seed is released from the flower head, the pappus catches the wind and carries the seed away from the parent plant.
- The light weight of the seed combined with the parachute-like structure allows dandelion seeds to be carried long distances by even the slightest breeze.

Maple Seeds
- Maple seeds have wings that spin as they fall from the tree. This spinning motion allows the seeds to be carried by the wind and dispersed over a wide area.
- The helicopter-like flight of maple seeds helps them to travel far from the parent tree, increasing the chances of successful germination in a new location.

Thistle Seeds
- Thistle seeds are equipped with fluffy structures that catch the wind and carry the seeds away from the parent plant.
- The fluffy nature of thistle seeds allows them to be easily carried by the wind, helping the plant to spread and establish new populations.
In conclusion, dispersal by wind is an effective strategy for many plant species to spread their seeds and colonize new areas. By taking advantage of the wind, plants can increase their chances of survival and reproduction in a constantly changing environment.