Question

Oaks are dominant trees in some temperate deciduous forests. The seeds of oak trees are enclosed within fruits called acorns. Squirrels and other forest animals often bury acorns to save them for the winter but do not end up eating all of them. How do the activities of squirrels affect oak trees?

a) They inhibit germination.
b) They promote seed dispersal.
c) They hinder pollination.

Answer 1

Squirrels promote seed dispersal for oak trees by burying acorns, which can then germinate and grow into new trees, enhancing genetic diversity and reducing competition among seedlings.

Step-by-step explanation:

The activities of squirrels significantly affect oak trees by aiding in seed dispersal. When squirrels bury acorns and do not return to eat all of them, some of these acorns may germinate under favorable conditions, leading to the growth of new oak trees. This symbiotic relationship contributes to the widespread presence of oak trees in temperate deciduous forests. It is important to note that squirrels do not affect the germination negatively nor do they hinder pollination; instead, they inadvertently help in spreading the seeds over a larger area beyond the parent tree's immediate vicinity, which can reduce competition among seedlings and increase the genetic diversity of oak trees in the forest.