Importance of Seeds

• Spermophytes (Gymnosperms and Angiosperms) produce seeds, making them the most successful plants on Earth
• Seeds are adapted to be dispersed by wind, insects, animals, water or humans. Effective seed dispersal means that the new seedlings germinate far from the parent plant. Well distribution reduces competition
• Seeds store reserve food in the endosperm for the early development of the embryo. Reserve food makes it possible for seeds to survive in harsh weather conditions by remaining dormant
• Dormancy: an inactive or resting period during unfavourable conditions
• The hard, resistant testa that surrounds the seed protects the young embryo against unfavorable conditions
• The cotyledons of the embryo provide food for the young, developing seedlings after germination