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Explain the various method of seed dispersal?
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Explain the various method of seed dispersal?
Various ways by which seeds are dispersed are:

(i) Dispersal by wind: Light seeds or hairy seeds and hairy fruit get blown off with the wind to far away places. Examples: Sunflower, maple, drumsticks etc.
(ii) Dispersal by water: Fruits or seeds which develop floating ability in the form of spongy or fibrous

outer coat are carried away with to different places. Example: Coconut.
(iii) Dispersal by animals or birds: Spiny seeds with hooks which get attached to the bodies of animals and are carried to distant places. Also, the fruits are eaten up by animals and birds and their seeds get dispersed to far away places. Examples: Xanthium, Urena, Mango etc.

(iv) Dispersal by bursting: Some seeds are dispersed when the fruits burst with sudden jerks and the seeds are scattered far from the parent plant. Examples: castor and balsam.

(v) Dispersal by human being: Humans also play an important role in seed dispersal especially during plantation and farming. They also transport fruits which also help in the dispersal of seeds.
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Explain the various method of seed dispersal?
Methods of Seed Dispersal


There are various methods through which plants disperse their seeds to ensure the survival and colonization of new areas. These methods can be categorized into different types based on the agents involved in seed dispersal. Let's explore these methods in detail:

1. Wind Dispersal


Wind dispersal, also known as anemochory, is a common method used by many plants, especially those with lightweight seeds. The process involves the following mechanisms:


  • Plants produce seeds with structures that aid in wind dispersal, such as wings, plumes, or hairs.

  • When the seeds mature, they are released from the plant and carried away by the wind.

  • The seeds can travel long distances, allowing the plant to colonize new areas.

  • Examples of plants that use wind dispersal include dandelions, maple trees, and cottonwood trees.



2. Animal Dispersal


Animal dispersal, or zoochory, occurs when plants rely on animals to transport their seeds. This method involves the following strategies:


  • Plants produce fruits or seed coverings that are attractive to animals, enticing them to eat or carry the seeds.

  • Animals consume the fruits, and the seeds pass through their digestive systems unharmed.

  • Seeds may also attach to the fur, feathers, or scales of animals, allowing them to be transported to new locations.

  • Examples of plants that use animal dispersal include berries, cherries, and burdock.



3. Water Dispersal


Water dispersal, or hydrochory, is a method employed by plants growing near water bodies. It involves the following mechanisms:


  • Plants produce buoyant seeds or fruits that can float on water.

  • Seeds are released into the water and are carried away by currents or tides.

  • Eventually, the seeds may wash up on shorelines or settle in new habitats.

  • Examples of plants that utilize water dispersal include coconuts, water lilies, and willow trees.



4. Explosive Dispersal


Explosive dispersal, or ballistochory, is a unique method employed by certain plants to disperse their seeds. This process involves the following steps:


  • Plants develop seed capsules that contain tensioned structures.

  • As the seed capsule matures, it dries out and builds up tension.

  • When triggered, the tension is suddenly released, causing the capsule to burst open and forcefully eject the seeds.

  • The seeds are then dispersed away from the parent plant.

  • Examples of plants that use explosive dispersal include touch-me-nots (Impatiens) and witch hazel (
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Explain the various method of seed dispersal?
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