In Cocklebur/Xanthium, dispersal of seeds occurs through the agency of

Options

A. Explosive mechanism
B. Anemochory
C. Hydrochory
D. Zoochory

Answer

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Understanding the Question**: The question asks about the mode of seed dispersal in Cocklebur (Xanthium). We need to identify the agency responsible for this dispersal.

2. **Reviewing the Options**: The options provided are:
- A) Explosive mechanisms
- B) Anemocory (wind dispersal)
- C) Hydrocory (water dispersal)
- D) Zookory (animal dispersal)

3. **Analyzing Each Option**:
- **Explosive Mechanisms**: This method involves fruits bursting open to release seeds. However, this is not characteristic of Xanthium, so this option is incorrect.
- **Anemocory**: This refers to seed dispersal by wind. Xanthium seeds do not have adaptations for wind dispersal, making this option incorrect as well.
- **Hydrocory**: This method involves dispersal by water. Xanthium seeds do not float or disperse through water, so this option is also incorrect.
- **Zookory**: This refers to seed dispersal by animals. Xanthium seeds have hook-like structures that allow them to attach to the fur of animals, facilitating their movement from one location to another.

4. **Identifying the Correct Answer**: Since the seeds of Cocklebur/Xanthium are adapted for attachment to animals, the correct mode of dispersal is Zookory (option D).

5. **Conclusion**: The dispersal of seeds in Cocklebur/Xanthium occurs through the agency of animals, making Zookory the correct answer.

**Final Answer**: The correct option is D) Zookory.

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