Question

Describe hypogeal seed germination.

Answer 1

Hypogeal germination: In this case, the cotyledons remain inside the soil and the epicotyl elongates and pushes the plumule above. It takes place in seeds such as pea, maize, mango, etc.

Answer 2

Hypogeal seed germination always occurs below the ground.

Thus, this term ‘hypogeal’ is derived from Greek words ‘hupó’ meaning ‘below’ and ‘gê’ meaning ‘ground’.

In this case, the cotyledons of the seed remain below the ground; while the epicotyl grows out of the ground to form the stem of the plant.

The hypocotyl remains below the ground to form the roots of the plant.

Hypogeal is comparatively a slower process than epicotyl, which occurs above the ground.