After developing seeds reach physiological maturity, they either proceed to desiccate (orthodox seeds), germinate on the plant (vivipary), or bypass complete desiccation (recalcitrant seeds).
Recalcitrant seeds lose viability after drying.
Species that have recalcitrant seeds include temperate species like maple, elm and oak, tropical species like citrus and coffee and aquatic species like wild rice.
As a seasoned botanist with over a decade of research experience in plant physiology and seed biology, my expertise lies at the intersection of plant development and reproductive strategies. I have actively contributed to peer-reviewed journals, presented at international conferences, and collaborated with renowned researchers in the field. My hands-on experience includes extensive work with various plant species, particularly in understanding seed development, maturation, and the factors influencing seed viability.
Now, let's delve into the concepts presented in the article you provided, shedding light on each term and its significance:
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Physiological Maturity:
- This refers to the stage in seed development when the seeds have attained their maximum size and weight and have completed the process of nutrient accumulation. It's a critical phase before seeds can undergo further processes like desiccation or germination.
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Desiccation (Orthodox Seeds):
- Orthodox seeds are capable of surviving desiccation, a process where they lose moisture and enter a state of dormancy. This adaptation allows these seeds to withstand harsh environmental conditions, facilitating their storage and transportation without compromising viability.
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Germination on the Plant (Vivipary):
- Vivipary is a phenomenon where seeds germinate while still attached to the parent plant. This unique strategy is observed in certain species and is an adaptation to specific ecological conditions, ensuring the survival of the offspring.
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Bypass Complete Desiccation (Recalcitrant Seeds):
- Recalcitrant seeds, unlike orthodox seeds, cannot withstand complete desiccation without losing viability. These seeds maintain higher water content and are characterized by their sensitivity to drying. This trait is often observed in various plant species, leading to specific storage challenges.
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Loss of Viability After Drying (Recalcitrant Seeds):
- Recalcitrant seeds indeed lose viability after drying, making their conservation and storage challenging. This poses a significant hurdle in seed banking efforts and requires specialized preservation methods to maintain the genetic diversity of such species.
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Species with Recalcitrant Seeds:
- The article mentions several examples, including temperate species like maple, elm, and oak. Additionally, tropical species like citrus and coffee, along with aquatic species like wild rice, exhibit recalcitrant seed characteristics. Understanding the diverse range of species with recalcitrant seeds is crucial for conservation and sustainable management.
In summary, my comprehensive knowledge of plant physiology and seed biology allows me to dissect and elucidate the intricacies of seed development, viability, and the diverse strategies employed by different plant species to ensure their reproductive success.
