Evolution of Seed Plants

These flashcards cover key concepts and vocabulary from the evolution of seed plants, including botanical classifications and reproductive adaptations.

Seed plants

Plants that reproduce by seeds, consisting of an embryo and nutrients surrounded by a protective coat.

Gymnosperms

Seed plants that have seeds exposed on sporophylls forming cones; dominate some ecosystems and appear early in the fossil record.

Angiosperms

Seed plants that produce flowers and fruits; they now dominate most terrestrial ecosystems.

Heterospory

The production of two distinct types of spores by seed plants: megaspores (female) and microspores (male).

Ovule

Structure that consists of a megasporangium, megaspore, and one or more protective integuments.

Pollination

Transfer of pollen to the part of a seed plant containing the ovules, which eliminates the need for water.

Seed dispersal

The process by which seeds are spread to new locations, often by wind, water, or animals.

Conifers

A group of gymnosperms that bear cones and include species such as pine and fir.

Complete flower

A flower that has all four types of floral organs: sepals, petals, stamens, and carpels.

Eudicots

A major group of angiosperms with two cotyledons and a range of floral organ arrangements.