Seeds of the Lodgepole Pine Do Not Germinate Unless

Question

Seeds of the lodgepole pine do not germinate unless:
A) Stimulated by fire, which indicates ground has been cleared and seedlings have a chance to become established.
B) Stimulated by fire, which is a stimulus indicating no predators will eat the seeds.
C) Stimulated by predators, which feed on the seeds and disperse them.
D) Stimulated by winter rainfall, which provides a stimulus for seeds to germinate.

Accepted Answer

Lodgepole pine seeds have a tough seed coat that requires heat to soften and open. Fire clears the ground of competitors and also provides mineral-rich ash that the seedlings can use for nutrients. Therefore, the stimulation by fire is necessary for the seeds to germinate and establish themselves as new lodgepole pine forests.