[Campbell Biology P.881] Which of the following describes a unique mechanism of wind dispers... | Practice Question

Which of the following describes a unique mechanism of wind dispersal where the entire plant breaks off and tumbles across the terrain?

  • A: Maple fruit, which spins like a helicopter blade.
  • B: Dandelion fruit, carried by umbrella-like parachutes.
  • C: Tumbleweeds, which break off and scatter seeds as they roll.
  • D: Alsomitra macrocarpa, which glides through the air with a large wingspan.

Explanation

The text explicitly mentions: 'Tumbleweeds break off at the ground and tumble across the terrain, scattering their seeds.' This is a unique form of wind dispersal involving the whole plant.