prickly seed case crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
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Solutions for "prickly seed case crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
BURR: A rough, prickly case around a seed or fruit, designed to cling to fur or clothing for dispersal.
8 Letters
CHESTNUT: The edible nut of a tree, encased within a very spiny and prickly outer husk.
More About "prickly seed case crossword clue"
The term "prickly seed case" refers to the protective outer covering of certain plant seeds or fruits that are characterized by sharp, often hooked, projections. These adaptations serve a crucial biological purpose: seed dispersal. By being prickly, the seed cases can easily attach to the fur of animals or the clothing of humans, allowing the seeds to be transported far from the parent plant. This method of dispersal, known as epizoochory, increases the chances of the seeds finding new, suitable environments to germinate and grow, preventing overcrowding and competition with the parent plant.
Common examples found in nature include the burrs of burdock plants, which are infamous for sticking stubbornly to clothes and pet fur, and the spiny husks that encase chestnuts. These structures can vary greatly in size, shape, and the density of their prickles, but they all share the common function of protecting the developing seed and aiding in its journey to a new location. In crosswords, clues like "prickly seed case" often point directly to these specific botanical terms, making a good understanding of such natural objects very helpful.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze Adjectives: Words like "prickly" in the clue are vital. They describe a key characteristic of the answer. Think about things known for being prickly in nature.
- Consider the Noun: "Seed case" clearly points to a botanical object. Narrow your thoughts to plant parts, fruits, or nuts.
- Think About Function: Why would a seed case be prickly? For dispersal. This can sometimes lead you to the answer if you know common examples of sticky seeds.
- Check Letter Count: Always use any known letters and the required word length to narrow down potential solutions efficiently.
- Expand Your Vocabulary: Familiarize yourself with common terms from biology, botany, and everyday nature, as these often appear in crossword clues.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some common words for prickly seed cases in crosswords?
Common answers for 'prickly seed case' in crosswords often include 'BURR' and 'CHESTNUT' (referring to its spiky outer shell). Other related terms might be 'Husk' or 'Pod', though these are not always inherently prickly.
Why do some plants have prickly seed cases?
Prickly seed cases are a survival mechanism for plants, primarily for seed dispersal. The hooks and spines allow the seeds to attach to passing animals or human clothing, thereby transporting them away from the parent plant to new areas where they can germinate and grow.
How can I identify a 'prickly seed case' in real life?
You've likely encountered them! Common examples include the burrs from burdock plants that stick to your clothes after a walk in the woods, or the very spiky outer shells of chestnuts and sweet gums. They are often brown, green, or black and vary in size.