种子休眠是植物在长期系统发育进程中获得的一种适应环境变化的特性。这种特性能够确保物种在恶劣的环境中存活, 减少同一物种中个体之间的竞争, 以及防止种子在不适宜的季节萌发。该文综述了种子休眠的类型、种子休眠的发育与连续群、种子休眠的调节、与休眠诱导、维持和释放有关的蛋白以及种子休眠的进化, 并提出了今后种子休眠研究的主要问题。

Seed dormancy is an adaptation to environmental changes that plants acquire during long-term phylogenesis. Dormancy may ensure that the species can survive natural catastrophes, decrease competition between individuals of the same species, or prevent germination out of season. Here, we review a classification scheme of seed dormancy; its development and continuum, regulation and evolution; as well as proteins associated with the induction, maintenance and release of dormancy. We also describe topics for future study of seed dormancy.