AP BIOLOGY

Detailed explanation-1: -The common dandelion is perhaps the most iconic, and well-known species to use wind dispersal. The windsail-like structure, called the pappus, opens and closes in response to moisture. On dry, windy days the pappus opens, catches the wind, and transports lightweight dandelion seeds far away from the parent plant.

Detailed explanation-2: -Dispersal Mechanisms: Seeds can be dispersed long distances by wind because they move in updrafts. Longevity: Dandelion seeds are not long lived in the soil. Dormancy: The seed of dandelion are not dormant and can germinate immediately in the same year that they mature of the plant.

Detailed explanation-3: -Wind dispersal Have you ever blown on a dandelion head and watched the seeds float away? This is wind dispersal. Seeds from plants like dandelions, swan plants and cottonwood trees are light and have feathery bristles and can be carried long distances by the wind.

Detailed explanation-4: -Seed Dispersal by Wind This process of dispersal is mainly seen in those plants which bear very light seeds. The seeds of the orchid plant, dandelions, swan plants, cottonwood tree, hornbeam, ash, cattail, puya, willow herb, are all examples of plants whose seed are dispersed by the wind.

Detailed explanation-5: -Because dandelion seed can be wind-borne for several miles, prevention of new infestations is difficult. Solitary new dandelion plants along fence rows, roadsides, flower beds, and in turfgrass should be grubbed out (digging out the entire plant, taproot and all) before they produce seed.