Question

Unlike ferns, conifers have __. a. vascular tissue b. seeds c. flagellated sperm d. fruits

Short answer

Conifers have seeds, unlike ferns.

Step-by-step solution

Understand the Comparison Groups

The question compares conifers and ferns in terms of their unique features. We need to identify a characteristic that conifers have but ferns do not.

Analyze Option A - Vascular Tissue

Both conifers and ferns have vascular tissue. This is not unique to conifers, eliminating option (a) from consideration.

Analyze Option B - Seeds

Conifers produce seeds as a method of reproduction, whereas ferns reproduce using spores and do not produce seeds. This characteristic is unique to conifers in this comparison.

Analyze Option C - Flagellated Sperm

Ferns are known to have flagellated sperm that swim to reach the egg. This is not a feature of conifers, as they use pollen tubes to deliver sperm. Thus, option (c) is not correct.

Analyze Option D - Fruits

Conifers do not have fruits. They have cones that contain seeds. This eliminates option (d) as a characteristic unique to conifers.

Select the Correct Choice

After eliminating options (a), (c), and (d), we are left with option (b). Seeds are unique to conifers when compared to ferns.

Key concepts

Conifers

In the world of plant reproduction, conifers are fascinating. They belong to a group of seed-producing plants called gymnosperms. Unlike many other plants, conifers do not have flowers or fruits. Instead, they produce seeds within cones. These cones can come in various sizes and shapes, depending on the species. Conifers include pines, spruces, and firs. They are well-adapted to a wide range of climates and are often found in cooler environments. These plants have needle-like leaves, which help them conserve water. One unique aspect of conifers is their method of reproduction using pollen and cones. Male cones release pollen, which is carried by the wind to female cones. Once fertilization occurs, the seeds develop within the protective environment of the cone.

Ferns

Ferns are an intriguing group of plants that reproduce through spores. Unlike seed-producing plants, ferns do not produce seeds or flowers. Instead, they have a life cycle that includes both a sporophyte and a gametophyte generation. Ferns thrive in moist, shaded environments, and their beauty is often admired for their intricate fronds. The undersides of these fronds typically carry small clusters of sporangia, which are structures that produce spores. Once the spores are released, they can grow into a new generation of ferns, if they land in a suitable environment. This type of reproduction is a fascinating example of how diverse plant life cycles can be.

Seeds

Seeds play a crucial role in the reproduction of certain plants, especially angiosperms and gymnosperms, which include conifers. Unlike spores, which are produced by ferns, seeds contain a protective outer coat, a food reserve, and an embryo that can grow into a new plant. This structure offers several advantages:

• Protection: The seed coat provides protection against harsh environmental conditions and predation.
• Nourishment: Seeds contain stored nutrients that help the young plant during the early stages of growth.
• Dispersal: Seeds can be dispersed by various methods such as wind, water, or animals, ensuring the spread and survival of the species.

These features make seeds an efficient means of reproduction for many plants, allowing them to colonize new areas and adapt to changing environments.

Vascular Plants

Vascular plants include major groups such as ferns, conifers, and flowering plants. Vascular tissue is a defining characteristic of these plants, allowing them to transport water and nutrients more efficiently than non-vascular plants. There are two main types of vascular tissue:

• Xylem: Responsible for transporting water and dissolved minerals from the roots to the rest of the plant.
• Phloem: Transports sugars and other metabolic products downward from the leaves.

This complex system of transport enables vascular plants to grow larger and thrive in a variety of environments. By having specialized tissues for nutrient and water distribution, vascular plants display significant adaptations that have allowed them to dominate many terrestrial ecosystems.