The Seed

Rucete ✏ Biology In a Nutshell

Seed Structure

a) Embryo

• The embryo is the young, developing plant contained within the seed.
• It includes the radicle (future root), hypocotyl (stem below cotyledons), epicotyl (stem above cotyledons), and cotyledons (seed leaves).

b) Seed Coat

• The seed coat is a protective outer layer that surrounds the embryo and storage tissue.
• It protects the seed from physical damage, dehydration, and pathogens.

c) Storage Material

• Provides nutrients for the growing embryo.
• In some seeds, the storage material is the endosperm (as in monocots like corn).
• In others, nutrients are stored in the cotyledons (as in dicots like beans).