Samenkörner

Samenkörner is a term used in botany to describe seeds that are enclosed within a single fruit. This type of seed dispersal is common in many plant species and is characterized by the seeds being released together from a single fruit. The fruit can be a capsule, a pod, or a berry, among other types, and the seeds within it are typically attached to the fruit's inner wall or to a central column.

The advantage of samenkörner is that it allows for the simultaneous dispersal of multiple seeds, increasing the chances of at least some seeds surviving and establishing new plants. This is particularly beneficial in environments where resources are scarce or unpredictable. Additionally, the seeds within a fruit can be protected from predators and harsh environmental conditions until they are ready to be dispersed.

Examples of plants with samenkörner include peas, beans, and many types of legumes. In these plants, the seeds are enclosed within a pod, which splits open when mature to release the seeds. Similarly, many berry-producing plants, such as strawberries and raspberries, have seeds that are enclosed within the fruit and dispersed together.

The term "samenkörner" is derived from the German words "Samen" meaning seed and "körner" meaning grain or kernel. It is used in German-speaking countries to describe this type of seed dispersal.