Samara

Seed Dispersal – Samara
Although plants have limited mobility, seed dispersal is pivotal in moving plants to a new location where the available resources permit further regeneration. Seed dispersal allows plants to avoid pest infestation and reduce competition with other plants. In a nutshell, seed dispersal sets the stage for any processes that ensue afterward. The size of seed has a direct impact on the length of time a seed remains inflight. Seeds with a low wing loading have a higher likelihood of traveling far. The samara seeds rely on wind for dispersal due to their low weight. The discussion of seed dispersal becomes vivid when evaluating how plants compete for resources.
Each samara seed is attached to a projection that resembles wings but attached in an asymmetrical position. The seed relies on a complex aerodynamic process that propels it away from the parent tree. The seed moves by making rapid spins when falling thus resembling the move made by a propeller. The spiraling motion caused by spinning helps sustain the seed in the air for a longer duration of time. Seeds with a spiraling motion have a higher likelihood of traveling farther as compared to seeds which rely on gravity alone. However, a damaged samara seed is even lighter and can, therefore, move longer distances because they tend to rotate well. A dispersing samara seed resembles a floating or flying object as it is being propelled by the wind away from the parent tree.
Seeds dispersed over a large area, have an advantage of exploiting untapped resources.

A new habitat may grant the seed an opportunity for survival. Seed dispersal allows the plant to colonize new areas rather than limiting the habitat and the niche. A new area provides access to new resources and reduces competition with other plants. In the long run, seed dispersal allows the survival and continuation of a plant’s life cycle.