siemenkoko

Siemenkoko, meaning seed size, refers to the physical size and mass of a seed. It varies widely among plant species, from very small to comparatively large seeds. Seed size is a multigenic trait influenced by the plant’s genetics as well as the resources available to the mother plant during seed development. It is commonly measured by seed mass and linear dimensions, and in many studies converted to thousand-seed weight as a standard metric.

Seed size affects key life-history processes. Small seeds often occur in large numbers and may disperse over long distances using wind or animals, but they usually contribute less seedling reserves. Large seeds generally provide greater energy reserves, giving establishing seedlings a better start in competitive or stressful environments. This creates a general trade-off between seed size and seed number, shaping strategies across species and habitats.

In ecology and agriculture, seed size influences germination probability, seedling vigor, establishment success, and storage behavior. It interacts with other traits such as dormancy, dispersal mode, and habitat specificity. For practitioners, seed size is a consideration in breeding programs, crop management, and restoration projects, affecting sowing rates, germination requirements, and post-emergence performance.

Researchers compare seed size across taxa to understand evolutionary diversification and ecological adaptation. Siemenkoko thus represents a basic, widely used descriptor of plant reproductive biology.