Significance of Seeds and Fruits Formation: Structure, Function, Importance

Edited By Irshad Anwar | Updated on Jul 02, 2025 07:13 PM IST

One of the important aspects of a plant's reproductive cycle is the development and formation of seeds and fruits. Following fertilisation, the ovule forms the seed, and the zygote grows into the embryo. The seed houses the embryo and stores food in the form of endosperm. The seeds also have a seed coat that protects them from drying out. The fruit develops from the ovary. The seed is enclosed and protected by the fruit.

This Story also Contains

What is Seed and Fruit Formation?
Structure of Seeds
Structure of Fruits
Importance of Seeds
Importance of Fruits
MCQs on Seed and Fruit Formation
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Significance of Seeds and Fruits Formation: Structure, Function, Importance

Fruits aid in seed dissemination in a number of ways. Fruits are categorised according to how many flowers or ovaries there are. The development and production of seeds and fruit guarantee the survival of plant species. Additionally, the process also guarantees genetic variety and environmental adaptation. Seed and Fruit Formation is an important topic in the field of biology.

What is Seed and Fruit Formation?

Seed and fruit development are both important processes in the life cycle of a plant. After pollination, seeds begin to develop from fertilised ovules in the ovary of a flower. From that ovary, the fruit emerges and serves as a covering for those seeds. This development is subdivided into the stages of pollination, fertilisation, and later growth and maturation driven by hormonal changes.

Seed formation is the only way of propagating a plant species, and since the seed, within the fruit, is not a genetic mirror image of the parent plant, this process also produces genetic variability and thus adaptability to changing environments. Fruits guarantee the dispersal of seeds by means of animals, by wind or water transportation, and by offering proper conditions for seed development and germination. Seeds and fruits, therefore, play a crucial role in the maintenance of plant diversity and contribute to the stability of ecosystems.

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Structure of Seeds

Seeds typically consist of three main parts: the embryo (which develops into the new plant), the endosperm or cotyledons (which provide nourishment), and the seed coat (which offers protection). The seed structure is explained below-

Definition and Basic Structure

A seed may be defined as the fertilised ovule. They are the reproductive units of the flowering plants. A seed consists mainly of three parts: a protective outer coat called the seed coat; an embryo that forms the young plant; and, in many kinds, a nutrient-rich tissue termed the endosperm. The seed coat protects the embryo from mechanical injury and drying. The endosperm is food for the germinating embryo.

Types of Seeds

The seeds can be classified mainly according to the number of cotyledons that they have.

Monocotyledons (Monocots)	Dicotyledons (Dicots)
One cotyledon, generally thin and grassy in appearance.	Two cotyledons are usually broad and visible as the seed germinates.
Parallel leaf venation with veins running in straight lines directly across the length of the leaf.	Reticulate venation is a network of interconnecting veins in the leaf.
Fibrous root system with many thin roots extending out from the plant stem base.	Tap root type root system, where one primary root grows downward and smaller roots branch off laterally from this main root.
Vascular bundles are scattered around the stem, with no particular pattern.	Vascular bundles in a ring in the stem produce an evident pattern.
Examples include Wheat, corn, rice, barley, lilies, onions	Examples are Bean, pea, tomato, oak, rose

Structure of Fruits

Fruits develop from the ovary after fertilisation and generally have three layers: the outer exocarp (skin), the middle mesocarp (fleshy part), and the inner endocarp (which may be hard or soft). The fruit structure is explained below-

Definition and Basic Structure

Fruits are mature ovaries of flowering plants that bear seeds and help in their dispersal. They generally have a pericarp, which is the fruit's outer covering, differentiated into three layers: exocarp (outer), mesocarp (middle), and endocarp (inner).

Types of Fruits

Fruits are classified into simple, aggregate, and multiple types based on their origin. The fruit types are explained below-

Simple Fruits

For simple fruits derived from one ovary, the pericarp might be fleshy or dry.
Examples include Berries (tomato, grape), Drupes (cherry, peach), and Pomes (apple, pear).

Aggregate Fruits

Fleshy fruit from several ovaries of a single flower, with each ovary swelled to give a small fruitlet.
Examples include Strawberry, raspberry, and blackberry.

Multiple Fruits

Multiple fruits are formed from the ovaries of multiple flowers that grow in a cluster.
Examples include Pineapple, fig, and mulberry.

Importance of Seeds

Seeds are important for plant reproduction, allowing for the continuation of plant species. They serve as the main unit of dispersal and survival during adverse conditions, and are essential in agriculture for growing crops. Seed importance is explained below-

Role in Plant Propagation and Biodiversity

Seeding is very important as it allows the plants to scatter and multiply, therefore being a source of species propagation. Seeds have genes that vary and ensure the adaptability of the plants to different habitats.

Nutritional Importance

Seeds are important food sources for animals and humans. They have been important sources of proteins, oils, and carbohydrates. These include grains, nuts, and legumes, among others.

Economic Importance

Seeds are the very base of agriculture and horticulture. They have importance in the production of crops and also the trade of seeds, and associated economic activities are achieved.

Genetic Diversity and Evolution

The fundamental genetic material of the plant is contained in seeds. The variation allows for the evolution and adaptation of plant species to be resistant to all diseases and changes in the environment.

Importance of Fruits

Fruits protect developing seeds and aid in their dispersal through animals, wind, or water. They are also a major source of food for humans and animals, and contribute significantly to the economy through horticulture and food industries. Fruit importance is explained below-

Dispersal Mechanisms

Fruits, therefore, play a responsible role in the dispersion of seeds using wind, water, animals, and explosive dehiscence. All these means make it possible to spread seeds to places where they will sprout and help propagate the plant.

Role in Human Diet

Fruits are very significant to the human diet since they provide vitamins, minerals, fibres, and antioxidants that take care of human health and well-being.

Ecological Significance

The fruit nourishes the animals and then helps in distributing the seeds. This is important for the survivability of the species of plants and their further reproductive success.

Economic Importance

Fruits are extremely important in terms of agriculture and commerce. They make up a significant portion of the food produced in the world. They provide livelihood to the farmers and indirectly bring a boom to the economy with the products they produce.

MCQs on Seed and Fruit Formation

Q1. Which of the following is a true statement about the relationship between seeds and fruits?

Option 1: All fruits contain seeds.

Option 2: Seeds are the same thing as fruits.

Option 3: Fruits protect and aid in the dispersal of seeds.

Option 4: None of the above.

Correct answer: 3) Fruits protect and aid in the dispersal of seeds.

Explanation:

Fruits serve to protect and aid in the dispersal of seeds. For example, a strawberry is a fruit that has seeds on the outside of the fruit. Animals that eat the fruit also help to disperse the seeds by depositing them in their droppings.

Hence, the correct answer is Option 3) Fruits protect and aid in the dispersal of seeds.

Q2. An aggregate fruit is one which develops from:

Option 1: Multicarpellary syncarpous gynoecium

Option 2: Multicarpellary apocarpous gynoecium

Option 3: Complete inflorescence

Option 4: Multicarpellary superior ovary

Correct answer: 2) Multicarpellary apocarpous gynoecium

Explanation:

An aggregate fruit arises from a multi-carpellary apocarpous gynoecium. Here, several separated ovaries of a single flower develop into individual fruitlets. As each fruitlet bears its seed and structure, it appears clustered. Raspberries and blackberries are examples of this unique reproductive method in flowering plants.

Hence, the correct answer is Option 2) Multicarpellary apocarpous gynoecium

Q3. A seed is a

Option 1: Ripened ovule

Option 2: Ripened ovary

Option 3: Ripened endosperm

Option 4: Fused carpel

Correct answer: 1) Ripened ovule

Explanation:

When fertilization takes place, the ovule in plants grows into a seed. Located inside the flower's ovary is the ovule. The ovule changes into a seed after being fertilized by pollen, which contains an embryo, stored nutrients (like endosperm), and a seed coat, which is a protective outer layer. The mechanism by which seeds are formed is a component of sexual reproduction in plants.

Hence, the correct option is 1) Ripened ovule

Other Useful Resources:

Pollen-Pistil Interaction & Outbreeding Devices	Artificial Hybridization in Plants - Emasculation and Bagging
Self incompatibility	Post Fertilization - Events and Changes in Flowering Plants
Differences between Megasporogenesis and Microsporogenesis	Dicotyledonous and Monocotyledonous Seeds

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the significance of seed formation in plants?

A seed's basic purpose is to provide the flowering plants with a mechanism by which they can complete their reproductive cycle in such a way that the species does not die out. So, the seeds give a way of forming new plants.

Seeds are the genetic carrier associated with the growth and development of plants and are involved in providing necessary components of genetic diversity and plant adaptation toward the environment. Moreover, seeds are an important method for survival and help plants cope with unfavourable conditions until the environment is feasible to provide germination.

2. How do fruits help in seed dispersal?

Fruits help in the dispersal of seeds either by luring the animals, which are subsequently carried off by the wind or through water, or mechanically. While the animals consume the fruits, they detach the seeds and pass them out at other locations, thus spreading the plants. Some of the adaptations of some fruits to be carried by wind include hooks or wings, while others are well adapted, such as floating on water, to reach new areas of growth. This is very necessary for plant dispersion to reduce competition between seedlings and to increase colonization in new habitats.

3. What are the different types of seed dormancy?

Seed dormancy can be classified into:

Innate Dormancy: It has a genetic or physiologic origin and is inherent within the seed.

Induced Dormancy: It comes as a result of certain environmental factors after seed maturation, such as temperature changes and moisture.

Enforced Dormancy: This comes about when external conditions pose a challenge to the ideal conditions of germination; for instance, the impermeable seed cover stops germination again in the presence of favourable conditions. Each of these types has its mechanism and triggers; knowledge of these is needed in developing means of breaking dormancy and increasing germination rates.

4. Why are seeds important for human nutrition?

They are a critical, natural prime source of essential nutrients such as proteins, healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals. They constitute a basic part of the human diet, mainly in the form of grains, nuts, and legumes. This includes superfoods like quinoa, chia, and flaxseeds due to their high nutritional value. They are energy sources, support metabolic functions, and contribute to general health and well-being; thus, they become very essential in food security and nutrition.

5. How does climate change affect seed and fruit development?

Climate change impacts seed and fruit development through the rise in temperatures, changing precipitation patterns, and increasing occurrence of extreme climatic events. This can result in changes in flowering and pollination time and the process involved in seed and fruit maturation. This could result in low viability of seeds, low yields of fruit, and poor nutritional quality. Rising temperatures and unpredictable rainfall due to climate change can further enhance the infestation by pests and outbreaks of diseases, which could further jeopardize seed and fruit production. Understanding these effects is very important in developing strategies that would mitigate adverse impacts on agriculture and ecosystems.

6. How does fruit formation benefit the plant?

Fruit formation benefits the plant in several ways: 1) It protects the developing seeds. 2) It often aids in seed dispersal through attractive colors, scents, and tastes that appeal to animals. 3) Some fruits provide nutrients to the developing seeds. 4) Fruits can help seeds survive harsh environmental conditions. 5) The process of fruit development can also stimulate continued growth and development in other parts of the plant.

7. How do fruits contribute to seed dispersal?

Fruits contribute to seed dispersal in various ways: 1) Fleshy fruits attract animals that eat them and disperse the seeds through their droppings. 2) Some fruits have hooks or sticky surfaces that attach to animal fur. 3) Winged fruits can be carried by wind. 4) Some fruits float on water for long distances. 5) Explosive fruits can forcefully eject seeds. These adaptations help plants spread their seeds to new areas, reducing competition with the parent plant and increasing the chances of successful germination.

8. How does fruit ripening relate to seed maturation?

Fruit ripening and seed maturation are often coordinated processes. As seeds mature and become viable, fruits typically undergo changes that make them more attractive to dispersal agents. This includes changes in color, texture, flavor, and nutritional content. The ripening process often involves the production of ethylene, a plant hormone that triggers various ripening-related changes. This coordination ensures that seeds are ready for dispersal when the fruit is most likely to be consumed or otherwise spread.

9. Why are seeds and fruits important for plant reproduction?

Seeds and fruits are crucial for plant reproduction because they protect and disperse the plant's genetic material. Seeds contain the embryo of a new plant, along with stored nutrients for initial growth. Fruits, which develop from the ovary after fertilization, protect the seeds and often aid in their dispersal through various mechanisms like wind, water, or animals.

10. How do dehiscent and indehiscent fruits differ in seed dispersal?

Dehiscent fruits open at maturity to release their seeds, often through splitting or the formation of pores. Examples include pea pods and poppy capsules. Indehiscent fruits, on the other hand, do not open to release their seeds. Instead, the entire fruit is typically dispersed with the seed inside. Examples include nuts and berries. This difference affects how seeds are dispersed and the strategies plants use for reproduction.

11. What is the significance of seed dormancy?

Seed dormancy is a state in which seeds are unable to germinate in a specified period of time under environmental conditions that normally favor the process. Its significance includes: 1) Preventing germination during unfavorable conditions. 2) Allowing time for seed dispersal before germination. 3) Spreading germination over time, which can increase the chances of species survival. 4) In some cases, allowing seeds to survive extreme conditions like fire or drought.

12. How does seed size relate to plant survival strategies?

Seed size is an important factor in plant survival strategies: 1) Larger seeds typically contain more stored nutrients, allowing seedlings to survive longer before establishing photosynthesis. This can be advantageous in shaded environments or where rapid early growth is crucial. 2) Smaller seeds are often produced in greater numbers and can be dispersed more easily, increasing the chances of some seeds finding suitable germination sites. 3) Seed size can influence dispersal mechanisms - larger seeds might be better suited for animal dispersal, while smaller seeds might be more easily wind-dispersed. 4) The trade-off between seed size and number reflects different ecological strategies for plant reproduction and survival.

13. What is the significance of the seed coat?

The seed coat, or testa, is the outer protective layer of a seed. Its significance lies in several functions: 1) It protects the embryo from mechanical damage and desiccation. 2) It regulates water uptake during germination. 3) It can contain chemicals that inhibit premature germination. 4) In some species, it may aid in seed dispersal through hooks, wings, or other structures.

14. What is the importance of the hilum in a seed?

The hilum is the scar on a seed coat marking the point where the seed was attached to the funiculus (the stalk connecting the ovule to the placenta). Its importance lies in: 1) It's often the point where water enters the seed during imbibition, initiating germination. 2) It can play a role in seed dispersal in some species. 3) The position and appearance of the hilum can be used in seed identification. 4) In some seeds, it's associated with structures like the micropyle, which is important for water uptake and pollen tube entry during fertilization.

15. What is the significance of seed banks in plant conservation?

Seed banks are crucial for plant conservation because: 1) They preserve genetic diversity of plant species, including rare or endangered ones. 2) Seeds can be stored for long periods, allowing conservation of species that might become extinct in the wild. 3) They provide a source of seeds for reintroduction or restoration projects. 4) Seed banks allow researchers to study plant genetics, evolution, and ecology. 5) They serve as a backup in case of environmental disasters or climate change impacts on natural plant populations. Understanding seed biology is essential for effective seed banking and conservation efforts.

16. What is parthenocarpy and why is it significant in fruit production?

Parthenocarpy is the development of fruit without fertilization or seed formation. It's significant in fruit production because: 1) It can produce seedless fruits, which are often preferred by consumers. 2) It allows fruit production in conditions where pollination or fertilization might be difficult. 3) It can lead to earlier fruit development and higher yields in some crops. Parthenocarpy can occur naturally in some plants or be induced artificially through hormonal treatments.

17. What is the role of auxins in fruit development?

Auxins, a class of plant hormones, play crucial roles in fruit development: 1) They stimulate cell division and expansion in the developing fruit. 2) Auxins can prevent fruit abscission, ensuring the fruit remains attached to the plant during development. 3) They are involved in initiating fruit set after pollination. 4) In some cases, synthetic auxins are used to induce parthenocarpy (seedless fruit development). 5) Auxins interact with other hormones to regulate various aspects of fruit ripening. Understanding auxin function is important for fruit crop management and improvement.

18. What is the role of the funiculus in seed development?

The funiculus is the stalk that attaches the ovule (and later the seed) to the placenta. Its roles include: 1) Providing a physical connection between the developing seed and the parent plant. 2) Transporting nutrients and water from the parent plant to the developing seed. 3) In some plants, it develops into an aril, an extra seed covering that can aid in dispersal. 4) The point where the funiculus attaches to the seed becomes the hilum. Understanding the funiculus helps in comprehending seed development and plant reproductive strategies.

19. What is the importance of the placenta in fruit development?

The placenta is the tissue inside the ovary to which ovules are attached. Its importance in fruit development includes: 1) Providing structural support for developing seeds. 2) Serving as a conduit for nutrients and water to the developing seeds. 3) In some fruits, it can develop into edible tissue (e.g., in tomatoes). 4) The arrangement of the placenta (placentation) can influence fruit structure and seed arrangement. 5) Understanding placental development is crucial for studying fruit evolution and improving fruit crops.

20. How do recalcitrant seeds differ from orthodox seeds?

Recalcitrant and orthodox seeds differ in their storage behavior: 1) Recalcitrant seeds cannot withstand drying or freezing and remain metabolically active after abscission. They typically germinate immediately or die. 2) Orthodox seeds can be dried to low moisture content and stored for long periods, often at low temperatures. 3) Recalcitrant seeds are often larger and found in tropical species, while orthodox seeds are more common in temperate plants. 4) This difference has important implications for seed storage, conservation, and the plant's ecological strategy.

21. What is the difference between simple and compound fruits?

Simple fruits develop from a single ovary of a flower, while compound fruits develop from multiple ovaries of a single flower or from the ovaries of several flowers in an inflorescence. For example, a cherry is a simple fruit developing from one ovary, while a pineapple is a compound fruit formed from the fusion of many individual fruits from an entire inflorescence.

22. What is the function of the pericarp in fruits?

The pericarp is the part of a fruit that develops from the ovary wall of a flower. Its functions include: 1) Protecting the seeds during fruit development. 2) Often playing a role in seed dispersal through color, texture, or other adaptations. 3) In some fruits, storing nutrients for the developing seeds. 4) Regulating gas exchange and water loss. 5) In some cases, aiding seed germination by breaking down to release the seeds. The pericarp can be differentiated into layers (exocarp, mesocarp, and endocarp) with distinct functions in different fruit types.

23. How does fruit type relate to seed dispersal strategy?

Fruit type is closely related to seed dispersal strategy: 1) Fleshy fruits (like berries) often rely on animal dispersal, with the fruit providing a nutritional reward. 2) Dry fruits with wings or pappus (like maple keys or dandelion seeds) are adapted for wind dispersal. 3) Fruits with hooks or barbs (like burdock) attach to animal fur for dispersal. 4) Some dry fruits (like pea pods) explosively disperse their seeds. 5) Buoyant fruits (like coconuts) are adapted for water dispersal. The fruit structure often reflects the plant's evolutionary adaptations to its environment and available dispersal agents.

24. How do fruits protect seeds during development?

Fruits protect seeds during development in several ways: 1) Physical protection: The fruit tissue surrounds and cushions the seeds, protecting them from mechanical damage. 2) Chemical protection: Many fruits contain compounds that deter herbivores or have antimicrobial properties. 3) Environmental protection: Fruits can shield seeds from extreme temperatures, desiccation, or excess moisture. 4) Nutritional support: In some cases, fruits provide nutrients to developing seeds. 5) Dispersal protection: Fruits often keep seeds contained until they are mature and ready for dispersal.

25. How do vivipary and crypto-vivipary differ in seed germination?

Vivipary and crypto-vivipary are both forms of precocious germination, but they differ in key ways: 1) In vivipary, seeds germinate while still attached to the parent plant and visibly protrude from the fruit (e.g., mangroves). 2) In crypto-vivipary, germination begins inside the fruit, but the seedling does not break through (e.g., some citrus fruits). 3) Vivipary is often an adaptation to specific environments, while crypto-vivipary can sometimes be considered a disorder in fruit development. Understanding these phenomena is important for plant ecology and crop management.

26. How do seeds differ from spores in plant reproduction?

Seeds and spores are both reproductive structures, but they differ significantly. Seeds are multicellular and contain a plant embryo, stored food, and a protective coat. They are produced by sexual reproduction in seed plants. Spores, on the other hand, are single-celled structures produced by non-seed plants through asexual reproduction. Spores don't contain a pre-formed embryo or food reserves.

27. What role does the endosperm play in seed development?

The endosperm is a nutritive tissue found in many seeds. It plays a crucial role in seed development by: 1) Providing nutrients to the developing embryo during seed formation. 2) Storing food reserves that the seedling will use during early growth after germination. 3) In some plants, it can also produce hormones that regulate embryo development. The presence and amount of endosperm can vary among different plant species.

28. How do cotyledons differ from true leaves?

Cotyledons are the first leaves to appear when a seed germinates, while true leaves develop later. Key differences include: 1) Cotyledons are part of the seed embryo, while true leaves develop after germination. 2) Cotyledons often store food for the seedling, while true leaves are primarily for photosynthesis. 3) Cotyledons usually have a simpler structure and may look different from the plant's true leaves. 4) Plants typically have a fixed number of cotyledons (one in monocots, two in dicots), while the number of true leaves varies.

29. How do monocot and dicot seeds differ structurally?

Monocot and dicot seeds have several structural differences: 1) Monocots have one cotyledon, while dicots have two. 2) The embryo position differs: in monocots, it's often to one side of the endosperm, while in dicots, it's usually centrally located. 3) Monocot seeds typically have more endosperm relative to the embryo size compared to dicots. 4) The vascular tissue arrangement in the embryo differs, reflecting the different vascular patterns in mature plants.

30. What is the role of the micropyle in seed structure and function?

The micropyle is a small opening in the seed coat. Its roles include: 1) Allowing water to enter the seed during imbibition, which is crucial for initiating germination. 2) Providing an entry point for the pollen tube during fertilization. 3) In some seeds, it can play a role in seed dormancy by regulating gas exchange. 4) The position of the micropyle can influence the direction of root emergence during germination. Understanding the micropyle's function is important for comprehending seed physiology and germination processes.

31. What is the importance of seed coat impermeability in some species?

Seed coat impermeability, or hard-seededness, is important in some species because: 1) It can induce seed dormancy, preventing premature germination. 2) It protects the seed from microbial attack and physical damage. 3) It allows seeds to survive passage through animal digestive tracts, aiding in dispersal. 4) It can help seeds survive in the soil seed bank for long periods. 5) In fire-adapted ecosystems, it can protect seeds until fire breaks the seed coat, timing germination with favorable post-fire conditions. Understanding this adaptation is crucial for managing certain plant species and ecosystems.

32. How do fruits contribute to the human food supply?

Fruits contribute significantly to the human food supply: 1) They provide essential nutrients, including vitamins, minerals, and fiber. 2) Many fruits are important cash crops, supporting agricultural economies. 3) Fruits offer dietary diversity and can be consumed fresh, dried, or processed. 4) Some fruits (like tomatoes) are used extensively in various cuisines. 5) Fruit by-products are used in food processing and other industries. 6) Understanding fruit biology is crucial for crop improvement, storage, and transportation in the global food system.

33. How do polyembryonic seeds differ from typical seeds?

Polyembryonic seeds contain multiple embryos, unlike typical seeds with a single embryo. Key differences include: 1) They can produce multiple seedlings from a single seed. 2) Some embryos may be genetically identical to the parent (formed asexually), while others result from sexual reproduction. 3) This phenomenon can occur through various mechanisms, including cleavage of the zygote or development of embryos from other seed tissues. 4) Polyembryony is more common in certain plant families and can have implications for plant breeding and propagation.

34. What is the significance of seed priming in agriculture?

Seed priming is a technique used to improve seed performance. Its significance in agriculture includes: 1) Enhancing germination rate and uniformity. 2) Improving seedling vigor. 3) Increasing tolerance to environmental stresses during early growth. 4) Potentially improving crop yield and quality. 5) Allowing for earlier planting in some cases. Priming involves controlled hydration of seeds followed by dehydration before planting. Understanding seed physiology is crucial for developing effective priming techniques.

35. How does seed shape influence dispersal mechanisms?

Seed shape can significantly influence dispersal mechanisms: 1) Winged or plumed seeds are adapted for wind dispersal. 2) Round, smooth seeds may be adapted for rolling or water dispersal. 3) Seeds with hooks or barbs are suited for animal dispersal by attaching to fur. 4) Flat seeds might be adapted for gliding short distances. 5) Some seed shapes may aid in ballistic dispersal from explosive fruits. The relationship between seed shape and dispersal mechanism reflects evolutionary adaptations to different environments and available dispersal agents.

36. What is the role of ethylene in fruit ripening?

Ethylene is a plant hormone crucial in fruit ripening: 1) It triggers the ripening process in many fruits. 2) Ethylene