What term describes the actual seed that the Goldfinch extracts from the chaff within a dried flower head?
Answer
Achenes
When discussing the process of seed extraction from composites like thistle or teasel, the specific botanical term for the fruit/seed that the bird meticulously pulls out is an achene. The Goldfinch utilizes its specialized beak and tongue to maneuver this tiny achene free from the surrounding, non-edible chaff material within the complex structure of the dried flower head. Recognizing this specific term clarifies exactly what the bird is targeting during its precise feeding routine.
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