- A Seeds producing toxic chemical compounds alone as their main documented adaptation specifically related to successful dispersal overall each season in the majority of cases studied
- B Seeds producing elaioisomes, fleshy fruits with colors targeting specific frugivores, or chemical repellents to keep non-dispersers away while attracting proper seed dispersers
- C Physical adaptations alone, such as hooked spines or feathery wings, occurring with little accompanying chemistry involved most times as widely reported in standard practice
- D Color signals alone, occurring largely without any accompanying chemical attractant compounds being produced by the plant itself under most conditions encountered as frequently observed in practice
Correct answer: B. Seeds producing elaioisomes, fleshy fruits with colors targeting specific frugivores, or chemical repellents to keep non-dispersers away while attracting proper seed dispersers
Explanation: Seeds coevolve with dispersers: fruit colors match disperser color vision (red for birds, yellow/green for bats); scents attract specific animals; elaiosomes attract ants; capsaicin in chili repels mammals but not birds (birds disperse seeds long-distance).
Concept context
Asexual and sexual reproduction, flower anatomy, pollination, fertilization, and seed development.