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The seed coat or testa is a protective covering that forms around the fertilized ovule.

The coating is normally hard and water resistant and provides protection from dessication (drying out). Additionally the seed coat also allows the seed to be eaten by certain animals and birds which then pass the seed undigested through their digestive tracts and facilitate dispersal of the seeds. The seed coat is formed in the ovary shortly after fertilization from the integument.

Once the correct conditions have been met for germination the seed coat will start to absorb water, soften and eventually split as the embryo inside starts to absorb water, swell and germinate.





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13y ago

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