Which of the following is not a correct change during seed development?

Options

A. Integuments of ovules harden as tough protective seed coats
B. The general metabolic activity of the embryo increases
C. The micropyle remains as a small pore in the seed coat
D. As the seed matures, its water content is reduced

Answer

To determine which of the following statements is not a correct change during seed development, we will analyze each option provided in the question.

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understanding Seed Development**:
Seed development involves various physiological and structural changes in the ovule after fertilization, leading to the formation of a mature seed.

2. **Analyzing Option A**:
- **Statement**: "Integuments of ovules harden as tough protective seed coats."
- **Explanation**: The integuments of the ovule develop into the seed coat, which consists of the outer layer (testa) and the inner layer (tegmen). This statement is correct as the integuments do indeed harden to form a protective seed coat.

3. **Analyzing Option B**:
- **Statement**: "The general metabolic activity of the embryo increases."
- **Explanation**: This statement is incorrect. During seed development, the metabolic activity of the embryo actually decreases. This reduction in metabolic activity helps the seed conserve energy and survive in a dormant state until conditions are favorable for germination.

4. **Analyzing Option C**:
- **Statement**: "The micropyle remains as a small pore in the seed coat."
- **Explanation**: This statement is correct. The micropyle, which is an opening in the ovule, remains as a small pore in the seed coat, allowing for water uptake during germination.

5. **Analyzing Option D**:
- **Statement**: "As the seed matures, its water content is reduced."
- **Explanation**: This statement is also correct. During maturation, the seed loses water content, typically reducing it to about 10-15% of its original moisture content. This reduction helps prevent decay and allows the seed to remain viable for longer periods.

6. **Conclusion**:
After analyzing all the options, we find that the incorrect statement regarding seed development is **Option B**, which states that the general metabolic activity of the embryo increases.

### Final Answer:
**Option B** is not a correct change during seed development.

---