Current status in seed ecology

We summarized overseas and domestic research status and new results in seed ecology, from six aspects including seed traits, seed development, dispersal, predation, seed bank, dormancy and germination, the life processes that seed experienced. The definition and English dictions were given for the important terms. Some central hypothesis, theories and controversial questions were included. We aimed to let the audiences know the main contents and the recent developments in seed ecology. According to the research status and background of climate change, we suggested that maternal effects and the relationship between multiple functional traits of seeds under different environments and climates should be comprehensively and intensively studied.