Introduction to Plants

A collection of vocabulary flashcards covering key concepts related to the structure, reproduction, and roles of plants.

Photosynthesis

The process by which almost all plants generate food using sunlight.

Haplodiplontic

A life cycle phase in plants where both haploid and diploid stages occur.

Xylem

The vascular tissue in plants responsible for transporting water and minerals.

Phloem

The vascular tissue in plants responsible for transporting sugars.

Gymnosperms

Seed plants that have 'naked seeds' and do not produce fruits or flowers.

Angiosperms

Seed plants that produce fruits and flowers, characterized by double fertilization.

Stomata

Small openings in plant leaves that allow gas exchange.

Waxy cuticle

A protective layer on plant surfaces to prevent desiccation.

Pollination syndrome

A set of traits in flowers that have evolved to attract specific pollen vectors.

Fleshy fruits

Fruits that encourage animals to collect and eat them for seed dispersal.

Embryo protection

One of the functions of seeds, which provides a protective environment for the embryo.

Dormant phase

A stage in the seed's life cycle allowing the embryo to survive until conditions are favorable.

Terrestrial stressors

Environmental challenges faced by plants when transitioning from water to land, such as UV radiation and drought.

Vascular tissue

Specialized tissue in plants that aids in the transport of nutrients and water.

Nutritional strategy

The method by which plants attain nutrients, typically from soil.