Question

Seed dormancy is an adaptation to ensure its germination during

• A. Unfavourable period
• B. Favourable period
• C. Stress condition
• D. Dessication

Answer 1

The correct option is B Favourable period

Seed dormancy is an adaptation to ensure its germination during favourable period. One important function of most seeds is delayed germination, which allows time for dispersal and prevents germination of all the seeds at the same time. The staggering of germination safeguards some seeds and seedlings from suffering damage or death from short periods of bad weather or from transient herbivores; it also allows some seeds to germinate when competition from other plants for light and water might be less intense. Seed dormancy can be caused by all the factors mentioned. A dormant seed is one that is unable to germinate in a specified period of time under a combination of environmental factors that are normally suitable for the germination of the non-dormant seed. Dormancy is a mechanism to prevent germination during unsuitable ecological conditions, when the probability of seedling survival is low.
Thus, the correct answer is option B.