[Campbell Biology P.878] A botanist discovers a batch of desert plant seeds that consistentl... | Practice Question

A botanist discovers a batch of desert plant seeds that consistently fail to germinate despite being kept moist in a greenhouse at optimal temperatures. Based on the information provided, which of the following additional treatments would be MOST likely to induce germination in these specific seeds?

  • A: Exposing them to a period of freezing temperatures.
  • B: Subjecting them to intense light conditions.
  • C: Providing a substantial amount of water, mimicking heavy rainfall.
  • D: Burying them deeply in the soil away from light.

Explanation

The text explicitly states: 'The seeds of many desert plants, for instance, germinate only after a substantial rainfall.' Therefore, mimicking heavy rainfall by providing substantial water is the most likely treatment to induce germination in desert plant seeds.