Question

Microphylls are found in which plant group?

(A) lycophytes

(B) liverworts

(C) ferns

(D) hornworts

Short answer

(A)The option “lycophytes” is correct.

(B)The option “liverworts” is incorrect.

(C)The option “ferns” is incorrect.

(D)The option “hornworts” is incorrect.

Step-by-step solution

Microphylls

Microphylls are leaves of small size with a single vein. The microphylls are unbranched and show the occurrence of leaves only on a single vein. The leaf vein emerges from a protostele without causing the leaf to split.

Explanation of option ‘(A’)

Lycophytes are vascular plants with a unique leaf pattern. This type of leaf pattern is similar to ferns. This unique leaf pattern is called microphylls. Lycophytes produce spores for reproduction.

Thus, microphylls are found in lycophytes.

Therefore, the given option is correct.

Explanation of option ‘(B)’

The leaf structure of liverworts is lobate, i.e., they have lobes like the liver. The leaves of liverworts are oriented in different rows. They do not have any specific stem.

Thus, liverworts do not possess a leaf structure like microphylls.

Therefore, the given option is incorrect.

Explanation of option ‘(C)’

The leaf structure in ferns is called fronds. Fronds are often blade-like structures with minute leaves and a petiole. The tip of the frond forms an apex, so it looks like a blade.

Thus, ferns do not have microphylls.

Therefore, the given option is incorrect.

Explanation of option ‘(D)’

Horn worts have narrow pipe-like leaves that look like appendages growing from the base. The hornwort sporophyte contains stomata and helps the plant in transpiration.

Thus, microphylls are not found in hornworts.

Therefore, the given option is incorrect.