4. Seeds: Sensing Germination Cues

Many seeds stay dormant until they “taste” precise environmental cues like moisture, chemicals from smoke, or temperature shifts.
This sensory ability ensures seeds sprout only when conditions are just right.
For example, lodgepole pine seeds are adapted to fire—only germinating after exposure to smoke, which signals a clear forest floor and ideal growth opportunities.
This clever strategy helps maximize survival in challenging environments. Read about it