Short Communication:The function of the hygroscopic awn of Themeda triandra.

Abstract

The hygroscopic awn of species such as Themeda triandra is widely believed to be a device ensuring the early burial of its seed. This belief has been extensively tested and no tendency for such self-burial has been found. It has been demonstrated that the propelling action of the awn does cause the seed to move along the surface and its possible function as a dispersal mechanism is tentatively suggested.

Keywords: botany; burial; caryopses; dispersal; function; germination; hygroscopic awn; seed; themeda triandra