Still other types of seeds may be buried by animals and forgotten, thus allowing for eventual germination. The mechanisms for seed dispersal are diverse, and quite ingenious, really. This story investigates how the avocado seed is spread, providing an interesting introduction to the larger topic of seed dispersal. Explain how good-tasting fruits like the avocado evolved over time. This story describes ways in which predators are encouraged to spread the seeds of a plant.
Traps are a useful way to collect and study seeds.
The Dragonfly site offers information on how to construct a seed trap from simple household items, and how to use it to determine the distance seeds travel and the method of transport they use. Designer Seeds from Access Excellence challenges older students to create a seed that will travel the farthest. Seed dispersal mechanisms and elements of experimental design are addressed in the lesson. Go to Poison Ivy for a Science Update that looks at the amazing diversity of chemical substances found in plants, and the defense mechanisms that plants and animals use to protect themselves from predators. How avocados get around.