Which property of mature seeds is crucial for their storage, so that they can be used as food throughout the year and to raise a crop in the next season?
Answer & explanation
Correct answer: option 2
The correct answer is Option (2) → Dehydration and dormancy
As a seed matures, its water content falls and it becomes relatively dry. The general metabolic activity of the embryo slows down, and the embryo may enter a state of inactivity called dormancy. A dry, dormant seed does not germinate straight away, so it can be stored for a long time and used as food or sown in the next season.
Option (1) Persistence of endosperm in the mature seed — Incorrect. A persistent endosperm is found in albuminous seeds such as castor and wheat, but non-albuminous seeds like pea and groundnut have none and still store well. It is not the feature that makes storage possible.
Option (2) Dehydration and dormancy — Correct. Dehydration and dormancy keep the seed from germinating soon after formation, which allows it to be stored.
Option (3) Thick cotyledons with stored food reserves — Incorrect. Thick cotyledons store food for the seedling, as in legumes. This helps the young plant grow, but food reserves alone would not stop a moist seed from germinating.
Option (4) A micropyle that allows entry of oxygen and water — Incorrect. The micropyle lets oxygen and water into the seed during germination. It helps germination, not storage.
NCERT Extract:
Seed – “… Seed is the basis of our agriculture. Dehydration and dormancy of mature seeds are crucial for storage of seeds which can be used as food throughout the year and also to raise crop in the next season. Can you imagine agriculture in the absence of seeds, or in the presence of seeds which germinate straight away soon after formation and cannot be stored?”