Serotiny

Serotiny is a natural adaptation where certain plants, especially some trees, hold onto their seeds in woody cones or seed banks until triggered by specific events, like a fire. When a fire occurs, the intense heat or smoke causes the cones to open and release their seeds into the nutrient-rich, competition-free environment. This strategy helps the plant ensure its seeds are dispersed at a time when conditions are optimal for growth, often after a fire has cleared other vegetation. Serotiny thus enhances the plant's chances of successful reproduction and regeneration in fire-prone ecosystems.