Here's a breakdown of why:
* Early Embryogenesis: This stage focuses on the establishment of the basic body plan of the embryo, including the formation of the root and shoot apical meristems.
* Late Embryogenesis: This is the stage where the embryo undergoes significant growth and differentiation, leading to the development of specialized tissues and organs. This is when:
* Storage reserves are deposited: These are essential for providing nutrients to the germinating seedling before it can perform photosynthesis. Common storage reserves include starch, proteins, lipids, and other molecules.
* Seed coat formation: The seed coat protects the embryo and ensures its survival during dormancy.
* Maturation: This phase represents the final stages of seed development, where the embryo enters dormancy and the seed becomes desiccated.
Therefore, the late embryogenesis stage is the critical time when the embryo accumulates the necessary resources for future germination and seedling development.
