Samara: Fruit with Wings

Samara is a type of fruit that has wings formed from other structures. The wings help the fruit disperse and spread to new areas. Samaras are found in various plant families and are often called "key fruits" due to their shape resembling that of a key.

Structure of Samara

The structure of a samara fruit can vary depending on the plant species. Generally, it consists of a single seed enclosed in a dry or fleshy covering called the pericarp. The pericarp is modified into a wing-like structure that helps in seed dispersal.

Seed Dispersal by Samara

Samara fruits are adapted for wind dispersal, which means they are lightweight and have wings that help them glide through the air. When the fruit falls from the tree, the winged structure enables it to travel further away from the parent plant. This method of seed dispersal allows the plant to spread its seeds over a wider area and reduces competition between offspring.

Examples of Samara Fruits

Some common examples of samara fruits include:

- Maple (Acer) - The winged fruits of maple trees are known as "maple keys."
- Ash (Fraxinus) - The fruits of ash trees are samaras that have a long, narrow wing.
- Elm (Ulmus) - Elm trees produce samaras that are round and flat with a broad wing.
- Pine (Pinus) - Pine trees produce cones that contain samara-like structures called "pine seeds."

Importance of Samara Fruits

Samara fruits are important for the survival and dispersal of many plant species. They help plants to colonize new areas and reduce competition between offspring. In addition, samaras can be a valuable food source for wildlife, including birds and small mammals.