Question

Give three examples of how the structure fits function in bryophytes.

Short answer

The structure of bryophytes is significant to its function. The green leafy gametophytes help in photosynthesis and nutrient absorption. Its protonema has a large surface area that allows the plant in water absorption.

The archegonia surrounding the embryo is vase-shaped that helps the plant by protecting the embryo. Stomata are found on leaves that bring out exchanges of gases.

Step-by-step solution

Gametophytic leaves

The gametophytic leaves in moss have a specific mechanism of photosynthesis. The flat green leaves that resemble the true leaves are attached to the stalk. These leaves also help the bryophytes in the absorption of water and nutrients.

Protonema

Protonema is a thread-like structure present in moss. Protonema is branched multi-cellular filaments with a large surface area is filled with chloroplast. Their major function is in water absorption.

The protonema triggers the production of hormones that impact the development of newly created cells.

Archegonia 

Archegonia is a female sex organ in non-flowering plants. The archegonia are a flask-shaped sac surrounding the embryo that protects the embryo during a placental cell transfer. It also acts as a site for fertilization.

Thus, the three structures, protonema, archegonia, and gametophytic leaves of mosses, are examples that show how the structure fits function in bryophytes.