Seed banks are vital for maintaining global biodiversity by conserving genetic material. To preserve seeds for decades, they are first dried to a moisture content of around 5% to 10%5\%\text{ to }10\%5% to 10% and then stored at a temperature of −20∘C-20^\circ\text{C}−20∘C.
Which statement best explains why these specific conditions are used to maintain seed viability?
They minimise metabolic activity and cellular respiration, preserving nutrient reserves and preventing the growth of decay-causing microorganisms.
They stimulate anaerobic respiration, allowing the embryo to generate ATP in the absence of oxygen without depleting stored starch.
They promote rapid mitotic division in the embryo, ensuring that the seed tissues remain active and ready for immediate germination.
They activate hydrolytic enzymes that convert stored lipids into soluble glucose, which acts as a cryoprotectant to prevent ice crystal damage.
25 exam-style questions on OCR GCSE Biology 6.1 Monitoring and maintaining the environment, covering 6.1.1 Field investigation of distribution and abundance, 6.1.2 Human interactions and biodiversity, 6.1.3 Maintaining biodiversity, and 6.1.4 Environmental change and distribution of organisms. Each one has a worked solution and a mark scheme showing where the marks go.