Class IX Practical: Plant Life - Seed Study (Germinating Seeds)

Objective

To examine and identify the plumule and radicle in germinating dicot (bean) and monocot (maize) seeds.

Guidelines

1. Seed Preparation: Soak bean and maize seeds in water overnight to initiate germination. Alternatively, use seeds that have been germinating for 2-3 days until the radicle and plumule are visible.
2. External Observation: Observe the external features of both types of germinating seeds.
3. Dissection (if necessary): For the bean seed, carefully remove the seed coat and separate the two cotyledons to expose the embryo. For the maize seed, cut a longitudinal section to view the embryo.
4. Identification: Identify the following parts in both seeds:
   • Radicle: The embryonic root, which emerges first.
   • Plumule: The embryonic shoot, which develops into the stem and leaves.
   • Cotyledon(s): Seed leaves that store food (two in bean, one in maize).
   • Seed Coat: Outer protective layer.
5. Drawing: Draw neat, labeled diagrams of the germinating bean and maize seeds, highlighting the plumule and radicle.

Expected Outcome

Ability to identify the embryonic root (radicle) and shoot (plumule) in germinating monocot and dicot seeds, understanding their roles in seedling development.