Question

In which of the following fruits dispersal occurs by grazing animals?
a) Xanthium
b) Mango
c) Coconut
d) All the above

Answer 1

Fruits dispersal is the process in which the fruits are dispersed or scattered from their origin of production. This can be done by air, water, gravity, and animals. Dispersal of fruit leads to its detachment from the parent plant. The various ways by which the fruits and seeds are dispersed they are known as the dispersal agents.

Complete answer:
Fruit dispersal is the process in which fruits are detached from their origin by the dispersal’s agents. These agents can be wind, water, or animals. Grazing animals like cows and goats are also the agents of dispersal.
Xanthium usually consists of a hairy like structure which gets easily stuck on the hair of the grazing animals. When the climatic conditions become favorable for them, they burst open and are transported to long distances which leads to the germination of the new plants. Animals like cows and goats usually feed on their leaves and carry the fruits of Xanthium along with them. Hence, helping them in the dispersal of fruits.
In coconut, the seed and fruit dispersal occurs through the water. Coconut has such an adaptation that it can float in the water and can travel large distances through it. Coconut is known as the light and buoyant food, a factor that helps it to float. The animals and birds eat the fruit part of the mango and leave the seeds to germinate by themselves.

So, the correct answer is option (a).

Note:
The fruit dispersal leads to the consumption of fruits by animals and the rest inedible part of the seed is left for dispersal and then germination. Some seeds are protected in the pods which burst open only when the weather conditions are favorable for them to germinate.