The cold desert annual grass Eremopyrum distans exhibits position-dependent effects of seeds in the spikelet. Wang et al. (pp. 95–105) find that seeds from three positions in a spikelet differ in morphology, mass and in percentage and rate of seed germination, and the plants derived from them differ in growth and seed production. Distal seeds appear to represent a ‘high-risk’ life history strategy and basal seeds a ‘low-risk’ strategy.
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Longer cones and a clockwise spiral lead to tighter seed packing in a Jurassic conifer
Growth & Development
A new method reveals that developing barley seeds run their own form of photosynthesis, distinct from the familiar process in leaves.
Growth & Development
New research shows that the seeds of Butia capitata use seasonal temperature cues to weaken their protective barriers, ensuring germination happens when the rainy season gives seedlings the best chance to survive.
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