Taxonomy and Gymnosperms

This set of flashcards covers key concepts related to taxonomy and gymnosperms, including definitions, significant figures, reproductive structures, and characteristics of gymnosperms.

What is the definition of taxonomy?

Taxonomy is the science of classification and nomenclature of organisms.

Who developed the modern taxonomy system?

Carl Linnaeus developed the modern taxonomy system.

What is binomial nomenclature?

Binomial nomenclature is the two-part scientific naming system for species.

Give an example of a gymnosperm.

An example of a gymnosperm is the giant sequoia (Sequoiadendron giganteum).

What are the four phyla of Gymnosperms?

The four phyla of Gymnosperms are Cycadophyta, Ginkgophyta, Gnetophyta, and Coniferophyta.

What type of reproduction do gymnosperms utilize?

Gymnosperms utilize a form of reproduction that involves seeds developed from fertilized ovules.

What is the key feature of the gymnosperm life cycle?

The dominance of the sporophyte generation is a key feature of the gymnosperm life cycle.

What environmental adaptations do gymnosperms have?

Gymnosperms have adaptations such as waxy needle leaves and deep root systems for survival.

What significant role do cones play in gymnosperms?

Cones are the reproductive structures that produce pollen and seeds in gymnosperms.

How does pollination occur in gymnosperms?

Pollination in gymnosperms occurs by the transfer of pollen from male cones to female cones.

How is the Genus part of a species name written in binomial nomenclature?

It is capitalized and italicized.

How is the species epithet (second part) of a species name written in binomial nomenclature?

It is lowercase and italicized.

What is a key rule for writing scientific names (binomial nomenclature) by hand?

Both the Genus and species names should be underlined.

To what animal does the scientific name Ursus americanus refer?

The American black bear.

What is the correct hierarchical order of biological classification, from broadest to most specific?

Domain, Kingdom, Phylum, Class, Order, Family, Genus, Species.

What mnemonic can be used to remember the biological classification hierarchy?

"Dear King Philip Came Over For Good Soup".

Provide the complete hierarchical classification for the Red Fox (Vulpes vulpes).

Domain: Eukarya
Kingdom: Animalia
Phylum: Chordata
Class: Mammalia
Order: Carnivora
Family: Canidae
Genus: Vulpes
Species: Vulpes vulpes

What defines a Gymnosperm?

Gymnosperms are terrestrial plants characterized by seeds that are not enclosed within an ovary.

What are the key characteristics of the phylum Cycadophyta?

Cycadophyta are tropical plants that were abundant in the Triassic period.

Which phylum of Gymnosperms contains only one living species, Ginkgo biloba?

Ginkgophyta contains the single living species Ginkgo biloba, which is known for its high tolerance to air pollution.

What is notable about the phylum Gnetophyta?

Gnetophyta contains three genera, including Ephedra, which produces the drug ephedrine.

What is the largest phylum of Gymnosperms?

Coniferophyta is the largest phylum, consisting mainly of cone-bearing plants suitable for various environments.

What do male cones in gymnosperms produce, and what do they develop into?

Male cones produce microspores that develop into pollen grains.

What structures do female cones in gymnosperms house after fertilization?

Female cones house megaspores that develop into seeds following fertilization.

What is a common example used to illustrate the life cycle features of gymnosperms?

The life cycle of a pine tree.

What unique evolutionary adaptations do gymnosperms demonstrate regarding their seeds and embryos?

Gymnosperms demonstrate adaptations such as long-distance seed dispersal, dormancy, and protection of the embryo.

What occurs in microsporangia during microsporogenesis in Coniferophyta?

Microsporangia produce microspores that develop into pollen grains.

What is the process of megasporogenesis in Coniferophyta?

Megasporangia produce megaspores, where one develops into the female gametophyte that produces eggs.

What is a key characteristic of the gymnosperm life cycle regarding its generation?

The sporophyte generation is dominant.

How do seeds develop in gymnosperms?

Seeds develop from fertilized ovules.

What is the role of pollen in the gymnosperm life cycle?

Pollen plays a crucial role in transferring sperm to ovules.