Seed dispersal is the process by which mature plant seeds are spread or transported away from the parent plant to new locations where they can germinate and grow into new plants. This mechanism is critical for the survival and propagation of plant species. There are various methods of seed dispersal, and they can be categorized into different modes based on the agents or forces responsible for the dispersal. Here are some common methods of seed dispersal:

1. Wind Dispersal (Anemochory): Many plant species have seeds adapted for dispersal by wind. These seeds are typically lightweight and equipped with structures like wings, parachutes, or hairs that allow them to be carried by the wind over varying distances. Examples of wind-dispersed seeds include those of dandelions, maple trees, and daisies.
2. Animal Dispersal (Zoochory): Seeds can be dispersed by animals, either through ingestion or attachment to the animals’ bodies. This type of dispersal includes several subcategories:
   • Endozoochory: Some seeds have evolved to survive passage through the digestive system of animals. After ingestion, the seeds are deposited in new locations through the animal’s feces. This method is common in many fruit-bearing plants, such as berries, which are consumed by birds and mammals.
   • Epizoochory: Seeds can also become attached to the fur, feathers, or fur of animals and be carried to new locations. Burrs, with their hooked structures, are a classic example of epizoochory. These seeds attach themselves to passing animals and may be transported to distant areas.
3. Water Dispersal (Hydrochory): Plants near bodies of water often use water as a dispersal agent. Seeds are designed to float and can be carried away by water currents. Coconuts are a famous example of seeds dispersed by water, as they can travel across oceans and establish themselves on distant shores.
4. Explosive Dispersal (Ballistochory): Some plants have developed mechanisms for explosively dispersing their seeds. These mechanisms can include the buildup of internal pressure in the seed pod, which eventually causes it to burst open and forcefully eject the seeds. Examples include the seed pods of peas and violets.
5. Gravity Dispersal (Gravitropism): Some seeds rely on gravity to disperse them. These seeds fall to the ground and come to rest near the parent plant. Gravity dispersal is often seen in plants with heavy or dense seeds, such as acorns from oak trees or nuts from chestnut trees.
6. Ant Dispersal (Myrmecochory): Some plants have developed mutualistic relationships with ants for seed dispersal. The seeds have appendages called elaiosomes that attract ants. The ants carry the seeds back to their nests, consume the elaiosomes, and discard the seeds in nutrient-rich waste piles. This process aids in seed germination.