Seed Germination in Desert Plants

During germination, the most resistant stage of the life cycle – the seed – changes to the most sensitive stage, namely the seedling. Therefore, in desert plant species, seed dispersal and subsequent germination in the optimum place are particularly critical parameters. Discussed here are the ways and means by which desert plants have adapted through the course of evolution to their extreme environment. Two such strategies which have evolved are outlined: plants with relatively large and protected seeds which germinate when the chance of seedling survival is high and the risk relatively low; and those with an opportunistic strategy – minute seeds which germinate after low rainfall. The reader is provided with an understanding of the complex influences acting upon each seed, traced from initial development to germination stage, regarding germination preparation and the subsequent survival.