Question

Seed dispersal in squirting cucumber occurs via ________.

• A. wind
• B. water
• C. ballistic mechanism
• D. animal consumption

Hint:

Ballistic dispersal involves the "shooting" of seeds away from the plant.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Step 1: Concept
Plants have evolved various mechanisms to scatter their seeds far from the parent plant to reduce competition.
Step 2: Meaning
The squirting cucumber (\textit{Ecballium elaterium}) uses internal pressure to eject seeds.
Step 3: Analysis
As the fruit matures, water pressure builds up inside until the fruit detaches from the stalk, squirts out the mucilaginous contents and seeds at high speed. This is known as an explosive or ballistic mechanism.
Step 4: Conclusion
Hence, the dispersal occurs via a ballistic mechanism.
Final Answer:(C)