What is an "achene"?

An achene is a tiny, dry fruit that comes from a single part of a flower. It is like a small seed surrounded by a hard shell. Achenes are found in plants like sunflowers, dandelions, and strawberries. They do not split open when they are ripe. Instead, they stay closed and can be carried away by the wind, water, or animals. Achenes help plants reproduce and spread to new places, which is important for keeping plant populations healthy and diverse.