Which specialized structure stores energy and supplies the seedling with initial energy for growth?

Which specialized structure stores energy and supplies the seedling with initial energy for growth?

• A. Cotyledon
• B. Hypocotyl
• C. Radicle
• D. Epicotyl

Answer: (A)

Seeds rely on energy reserves stored in the cotyledons, the embryo’s first leaves. These structures hold nutrients such as starches, oils, and proteins that are mobilized during germination to fuel rapid growth until the seedling can photosynthesize on its own. Because supplying these initial reserves is the primary role of the cotyledons, they are the best choice. The other parts serve different roles: the hypocotyl acts as the young stem that pushes the shoot upward, the radicle becomes the first root, and the epicotyl develops into the shoot above the cotyledons.

Seeds rely on energy reserves stored in the cotyledons, the embryo’s first leaves. These structures hold nutrients such as starches, oils, and proteins that are mobilized during germination to fuel rapid growth until the seedling can photosynthesize on its own. Because supplying these initial reserves is the primary role of the cotyledons, they are the best choice. The other parts serve different roles: the hypocotyl acts as the young stem that pushes the shoot upward, the radicle becomes the first root, and the epicotyl develops into the shoot above the cotyledons.