Wk12 T2 S 162 Seed Dispersal Worksheet Interactive Worksheet - Edform - Free Printable

Problem Overview:

The task is to identify how each seed in the provided images is dispersed and to describe how an apple seed could be dispersed by water. The worksheet explains that seeds are dispersed through various methods, such as wind, animals, water, or sticking to animals.

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Solution:

#### Step 1: Identify Seed Dispersal Methods for Each Seed
We will analyze each seed image and determine the primary dispersal method based on its structure and characteristics.

1. Sycamore Seed (Top Left):
- Dispersal Method: Wind
- Explanation: Sycamore seeds have large, flat, wing-like structures that allow them to glide through the air when they fall from the tree. This adaptation helps them travel long distances away from the parent plant.

2. Poppy Seed (Top Middle):
- Dispersal Method: Wind
- Explanation: Poppies produce small, lightweight seeds enclosed in a capsule. When the capsule dries out, it splits open, releasing the seeds, which are then carried away by the wind.

3. Burdock Seed (Top Right):
- Dispersal Method: Animals (Sticking to Fur)
- Explanation: Burdock seeds have hooked bristles (called "awns") that attach to the fur of animals or clothing. As animals move, the seeds are transported to new locations.

4. Berry Seeds (Bottom Left):
- Dispersal Method: Animals (Eating and Excreting)
- Explanation: Berries are eaten by animals, and the seeds pass through their digestive systems unharmed. The seeds are then deposited in feces, often far from the parent plant.

5. Coconut Seed (Bottom Middle):
- Dispersal Method: Water
- Explanation: Coconuts are buoyant and can float on water. They are often dispersed by ocean currents, allowing them to reach distant shores where they can germinate.

6. Acorn Seed (Bottom Right):
- Dispersal Method: Animals (Carrying and Burying)
- Explanation: Acorns are collected by animals like squirrels and jays, which carry them away and bury them for later consumption. Some acorns are forgotten and eventually germinate.

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#### Step 2: Describe How an Apple Seed Could Be Dispersed by Water
- Dispersal Method: Water
- Explanation: Apples grow on trees near water sources such as rivers, lakes, or streams. When an apple falls into the water, it may float downstream. As the apple decomposes or is eaten by animals in the water, the seeds inside can be released. These seeds may sink to the bottom of the water body or be carried further by the current. Eventually, the seeds can wash up on shorelines, where they may germinate if conditions are favorable.

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Final Answer:

1. Sycamore Seed: Wind
2. Poppy Seed: Wind
3. Burdock Seed: Animals (Sticking to Fur)
4. Berry Seeds: Animals (Eating and Excreting)
5. Coconut Seed: Water
6. Acorn Seed: Animals (Carrying and Burying)

Apple Seed Dispersal by Water:
An apple seed could be dispersed by water when an apple falls into a river, lake, or stream. The apple may float downstream, and as it decomposes or is eaten by aquatic animals, the seeds inside are released. These seeds can either sink to the bottom or continue floating until they wash up on a shoreline, where they may germinate.

Final Answer Box:
\[
\boxed{
\text{Sycamore: Wind, Poppy: Wind, Burdock: Animals (Sticking to Fur), Berries: Animals (Eating and Excreting), Coconut: Water, Acorn: Animals (Carrying and Burying)}
}
\]