skotodormancy

Skotodormancy is a state of dormancy or suspended metabolic activity observed primarily in certain plant seeds or spores. The term originates from Greek roots, with "skoto-" meaning shadow or darkness, and "dormancy" referring to a period of inactivity. It describes a dormancy phase triggered by environmental factors such as darkness, low temperatures, or specific light conditions, which prevents germination until favorable conditions are restored.

In many species, skotodormancy acts as a survival strategy, ensuring that germination occurs during optimal periods for growth and reproduction. This dormancy is often associated with seed or spore structures that are sensitive to light and temperature cues, effectively delaying development until environmental signals indicate suitable conditions. For example, some desert plants exhibit skotodormancy during the hot, dry season, germinating only when cooler, more humid conditions prevail.

The physiological mechanisms underlying skotodormancy involve complex hormonal and cellular processes. Light influences the synthesis and breakdown of growth hormones such as gibberellins and abscisic acid, which regulate seed dormancy and germination. Low light conditions can maintain high levels of dormancy-promoting hormones, thereby preventing germination.

Understanding skotodormancy can have applications in agriculture, conservation, and ecological management. By manipulating environmental cues or hormonal pathways, it is possible to control seed germination timing, enhance crop yields, or restore plant populations in degraded habitats.

Overall, skotodormancy exemplifies how plants adapt to varying environments through regulated dormancy phases, enabling survival across diverse and fluctuating conditions. Its study offers insights into plant resilience and ecological adaptability.