3.2 Introduction to Bryophytes

These flashcards cover key concepts about bryophytes, including their structure, reproduction, and life cycle.

What are bryophytes lacking that limits their size compared to vascular plants?

Bryophytes lack vascular tissue, true roots, and leaves.

What term is used to refer to the body of a bryophyte?

The body of a bryophyte is called the thallus.

What are rhizoids in bryophytes?

Rhizoids are hair-like structures that anchor bryophytes to the soil but are not true roots.

What is the dominant stage of the bryophyte life cycle?

The gametophyte stage is the dominant stage of the bryophyte life cycle.

How do bryophytes primarily reproduce?

Bryophytes primarily reproduce via spores instead of seeds.

What are the two types of reproductive structures in bryophytes?

The two types of reproductive structures are antheridia (male) and archegonia (female).

Where do liverworts typically thrive?

Liverworts thrive in moist environments, especially during wet seasons.

What is a unique reproductive structure found in liverworts?

Gemmic cups, which can reproduce asexually when rain splashes the thallus fragments.

What is the function of stomata in hornworts?

Stomata allow for gas exchange in the sporophyte stage of hornworts.

What is a protonema?

Protonema is a thread-like structure that forms from haploid spores and develops into the gametophyte.

How do mosses differ from liverworts and hornworts?

Mosses can grow larger and have more complex structures resembling stems, but they still lack true vascular tissue.

How does the sporophyte depend on the gametophyte in mosses?

Sporophytes are dependent on gametophytes for nutrition and don't exist independently.