In the plant kingdom, there are many different ways in which plants disperse their seeds. The squirting cucumber (Ecballium elaterium) spreads its seeds in a special, “explosive” way for which the fruit prepares itself during ripening. In addition to the plant’s specific growth direction, the internal structure of the fruit also plays an important role, and even the seeds themselves can contribute to their own dispersal. This presentation will unravel the structure of the fruit and plant, as well as the “explosion” that ensures successful seed dispersal. No registration required. Seminar room of the Kiel Science Workshop, Building 14g (in the Botanical Garden) Speaker: Helen Gorges (Functional Morphology and Biomechanics Group, Kiel University)