Question

This photograph shows a dandelion seed in flight. Describe how seeds and other adaptations in seed plants contributed to the rise of seed plants and their dominant role in plant communities today.

Short answer

Seeds are more developed when compared to spores because spores are unicellular, while seeds are multicellular. The multicellular nature of the seed enables it to protect the embryo. The seeds can also maintain dormancy and hence can live for a longer duration.

These seeds store an abundance of reserve food in them to support growth and development.

Step-by-step solution

Seeds

Seed is an essential structure in plants that houses the embryo within this. The seeds can develop into a new plant when favorable conditions like sunlight, water, and soil are present. Seeds are found in both gymnosperms as well as angiosperms.

Difference between seeds and spores

Several distinguishing traits enable us to differentiate between seeds and spores. Seeds are those structures that are formed from multiple cells, while spores arise from a single cell. Seeds are essential for sexual reproduction, while spores are essential for asexual reproduction.

Adaptations in seeds

Seeds have developed multiple adaptations that are suited for their survival.One such adaptation in seeds is that it protects the embryo from external harm. Additionally, some seeds also possess wings that facilitate easy dispersal.

They also store reserve food in them to nourish the embryo.