How does producing fruit benefit a plant in terms of seed dispersal?

• A. Fruits prevent seeds from being eaten by herbivores.
• B. Fruits attract animals that help disperse seeds over a wide area.
• C. Fruits ensure seeds remain attached to the parent plant.
• D. Fruits provide nutrients to the seeds, allowing them to grow immediately.

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the role of fruits in seed dispersal: Fruits are structures that develop from the ovary of a flower and contain seeds. Their primary function is to aid in the dispersal of seeds away from the parent plant.
2. Recognize the attraction of animals: Fruits often have appealing colors, scents, and flavors that attract animals. When animals consume the fruit, they inadvertently help in dispersing the seeds contained within.
3. Consider the mechanism of dispersal: After consuming the fruit, animals may travel significant distances before excreting the seeds, thus dispersing them over a wide area. This increases the chances of seeds finding suitable conditions for germination.
4. Evaluate the benefits of wide dispersal: By dispersing seeds over a wide area, plants reduce competition among seedlings and increase genetic diversity, which can enhance survival and adaptation.
5. Clarify misconceptions: While fruits do provide some protection to seeds, their primary benefit is attracting animals for dispersal rather than preventing seeds from being eaten or ensuring they remain attached to the parent plant.