Seeds: Ecology, Biogeography, and Evolution of Dormancy and Germination
Dormancy mechanisms are evolutionary adaptations to local environmental conditions
This ecological perspective on seed biology complements Bewley's physiological approach by focusing on how dormancy and germination strategies evolved in response to different environments. The book provides the foundation for understanding why different seeds have different dormancy mechanisms - physical barriers, chemical timers, temperature requirements - and how these represent evolutionary solutions to the timing problem.
The ecological framing directly supports the business translation: just as seeds evolved dormancy mechanisms calibrated to local conditions, startups must develop 'dormancy mechanisms' (validation processes, timing frameworks) calibrated to their specific market environments.
Key Findings from Baskin & Baskin (2014)
- Dormancy mechanisms are evolutionary adaptations to local environmental conditions
- Physical dormancy (hard seed coats) requires specific breaking conditions (fire, freeze-thaw, digestion)
- Chemical dormancy involves inhibitor compounds that must break down over time
- Different environments select for different germination strategies (big seeds vs. small seeds)