Seeds

Seeds are the products of the sexual reproduction of plants, and for this reason the genetic information of seeds is influenced by both of the parents. Sexual reproduction is important for two reasons. The first involves the prevention of the loss of potentially important genetic information, a process that occurs when non-sexual means of propagation are prevalent. The other benefit of sexual reproduction is associated with the provision of new genetic combinations upon which natural selection acts, so that species continue to evolve populations that are favorably adapted to a dynamically changing environment.

Plants have evolved various mechanisms for the dissemination of their seeds, so that new plants can be established at some distance from their parent. The dispersal of seeds is important in expanding the range of plant species, especially if species are to take advantage of habitat opportunities that may be created by disturbances and other ecological processes.

The seeds of some plant species are important to humans, as sources of food, while other seeds are important as raw materials for the manufacture of industrial chemicals, and other products.

The seeds of some species of plants are extremely important for human welfare. In some cases, this is because the seeds (or the fruits that contain them) are used as a source of food, but there are some other important uses of seeds as well.