Survival of the Species: Seed Dormancy and Germination in Spermatophytes

Introduction

Seed formation is a great success of gymnosperm and angiosperm plants that make them adapt to dry land areas where seeds ensure their survival as potential life is hidden in hibernation and sprouts in favourable environmental conditions. Agronomic crops mostly belong to flowering plants (angiosperms) that are seed-producing. A seed usually has low moisture content as dehydration occurs in seed maturation to survive a longer period without seedling emergence and maintains a species' functional role in a region. The study of seed germination, emergence, dormancy, and the effect of environmental factors on these processes is called seed physiology.

Seed germination

Germination is the emergence of a seedling from a seed controlled by many internal and external environmental clues. It is a complex process. In this process, moisture content increases, metabolism changes, and cell division fastens. In germination, the testa and endosperm rupture and the radicle emerges.

Seed dormancy

In unfavourable weather conditions, a seed undergoes a dormant stage. It is a blockage of the germination process and the seed remains viable. It is an evolutionary adaptation in different species to establish new progeny when climate favours plant survival. Many factors are involved in turning a seed into a dormant stage. A seed breaks dormancy when it finds suitable moisture, light, and temperature. Hormones are also involved in dormancy and germination.

Conclusion

Seed formation, a peculiar character of spermatophytes, is a vital adaptation to the terrestrial environment. The low moisture content facilitates prolonged dormancy, ensuring survival until favourable conditions arise. Germination and dormancy are intricate processes influenced by internal and external clues. Seeds of domesticated crops are also very important from the viewpoint of food security, providing a stable and reliable source of nutrition to humans and livestock.