What is the role of the endosperm in seed development?

The endosperm provides nutrients to the developing embryo during seed development.

The endosperm plays a crucial role in seed development as it is the primary source of nutrition for the developing embryo. It is a tissue produced inside the seeds of most flowering plants around the time of fertilisation. The endosperm is rich in starch, proteins, and oils, making it a vital source of nutrients that support the growth and development of the embryo.

The formation of the endosperm begins after the process of double fertilisation, which is unique to angiosperms. One sperm cell fertilises the egg cell to form the zygote, which develops into the embryo. The other sperm cell fertilises the central cell to form the primary endosperm cell, which divides rapidly to form the endosperm tissue.

The endosperm's role is not limited to providing nutrition. It also acts as a medium for the transfer of nutrients from the mother plant to the embryo. The nutrients from the mother plant are transported through the placenta, into the seed coat, and then into the endosperm where they are stored until needed by the growing embryo.

In some plants, the endosperm is consumed by the embryo before the seed matures, while in others, it remains in the mature seed and provides nutrition to the germinating seedling. For example, in cereals like wheat and maize, the endosperm constitutes a significant part of the mature seed and is the part of the seed that we consume.

In summary, the endosperm plays a vital role in seed development by providing the necessary nutrients to the developing embryo, acting as a medium for nutrient transfer, and in some cases, providing nutrition to the germinating seedling.