Seedless Plants

These flashcards cover key terms and concepts related to seedless plants, focusing on their evolution, adaptations, and life cycles.

Streptophytes

A monophyletic group that includes land plants and closely related green algae (Charophytes), sharing characteristics like carotenoids and chlorophyll.

Gametophyte

The haploid stage of the plant life cycle; dominant in lower plants and produces gametes.

Sporophyte

The diploid stage of the plant life cycle; produces spores and is dominant in higher plants.

Apical Meristem

The region at the tips of roots and shoots responsible for the growth and elongation of plants.

Alternation of Generations

The life cycle of plants involving alternating between haploid (gametophyte) and diploid (sporophyte) stages.

Bryophytes

Nonvascular plants including liverworts, hornworts, and mosses; they do not have true vascular tissues.

Vascular Plants

Plants with vascular tissues (xylem and phloem) that transport water, nutrients, and sugars throughout the plant.

Microphylls

Small leaves with a simple vascular structure, characteristic of some seedless vascular plants.

Megaphylls

Larger leaves with a complex branching vascular system found in many vascular plants.

Sori

Clusters of sporangia on the underside of fern fronds, where spores are produced.

Xylem

Vascular tissue responsible for transporting water and minerals from the roots to the rest of the plant.

Phloem

Vascular tissue responsible for transporting organic nutrients, especially sugars, throughout the plant.

Mycorrhiza

A symbiotic association between fungi and plant roots that enhances nutrient absorption, particularly phosphorus.

Nitrogen Fixation

The process by which certain bacteria convert atmospheric nitrogen into a form usable by plants.

Peat Moss

Sphagnum, a type of moss used as a renewable resource, often for its water-retaining properties.

Croziers

The coiled tips of fern fronds, also known as fiddleheads, which are edible.

Flagellated Sperm

Sperm that has flagella and can swim to reach the egg for fertilization in nonvascular plants.

Sporophylls

Leaves that are modified to bear sporangia, responsible for the production of spores.