plant diversity 2

Seed Coat

The tough, protective outer layer of a seed.

Food Supply (Storage Tissue/Endosperm)

Provides energy for the embryo's early life and germination.

Cotyledons

Parts of the embryo; store food in some seeds (known as 'seed leaves').

Hypocotyl/Epicotyl

Parts of the embryo; develop into the stem and leaves of the plant shoot.

Radicle

The embryonic root; develops into the primary root of the plant.

Pollen

A male gametophyte that allows reproduction without the need for water.

Conifers

One of the four major groups of gymnosperms, characterized by their cone-bearing nature.

Gingkos

A major group of gymnosperms known for their unique fan-shaped leaves.

Cycads

A group of gymnosperms that are tropical and resemble palms.

Gnetophytes

A group of gymnosperms known for their diverse characteristics, including some similarities to angiosperms.

Seeds

Structures that contain the embryo and provide protection and nutrients.

Pollen

A fine powder containing male gametes, which is essential for plant reproduction.

Sporophyte

The dominant diploid stage in the life cycle of gymnosperms and angiosperms.

Male Gametophyte

Found within pollen; responsible for producing sperm cells.

Female Gametophyte

Located within the ovule, found in the female cone.

Wind Pollination

A method of pollination where pollen is distributed by wind, less efficient than animal pollination.

Angiosperm

Plants known as 'covered seed' or flowering plants.

Fruit

A structure that develops from the ovary of a flower and encloses seeds.

Monocots

Plants with one cotyledon, parallel leaf veins, and scattered vascular bundles.

Dicots (Eudicots)

Plants with two cotyledons, netted leaf veins, and arranged vascular bundles.

Grass

A type of monocot that is crucial in human agriculture.

Trees

Most dicots; play a vital role in ecosystems and human life.

Pollination

The movement of pollen from the anther to the stigma.

Anther

Part of the stamen responsible for producing pollen.

Stigma

The top part of the pistil where pollen lands.

Ovary

Base of the pistil that contains ovules and develops into fruit.

Petal

Brightly colored structures that attract pollinators.

Deceptive Pollination

When flowers trick pollinators into visiting without offering rewards.

Fruit Development

The process where the ovary of the flower matures to protect and disperse seeds.

Nectar

A sugary fluid produced by flowers to attract pollinators.

Diversity of Angiosperms

High diversity due to diverse associations with animal pollinators and seed dispersers.

Animal Aid in Pollination

Animals help transfer pollen while foraging for food.

Cross-Pollination

Pollination involving the transfer of pollen between different individuals, enhancing genetic diversity.

Seed Dispersal

The process by which seeds are spread away from the parent plant.

Filament

The stalk that supports the anther in the stamen.

Style

The stalk that connects the stigma to the ovary.

Sepal

Leaf-like structures that protect the flower bud before it opens.

Long-Distance Mating

Mating that occurs over longer distances due to animal pollinators.

Animal Pollination Benefits

Includes less pollen needed, promotes genetic diversity, and species selectivity.

Ovule

Structure within the ovary that develops into seeds upon fertilization.

Enclose and Protect Seed

The primary function of fruits is to protect and aid in the dispersal of seeds.

Rotting Meat Scents

Some flowers emit this scent to attract specific pollinators like flies.

Bright Colors and Sweet Scents

Adaptations flowers use to attract pollinators.