Bryophytes and Seedless Vascular Plants

Bryophytes

Non-vascular plants that include mosses, liverworts, and hornworts.

Gametophyte

The haploid phase of the plant life cycle that produces gametes.

Sporophyte

The diploid phase of the plant life cycle that produces spores.

Rhizoids

Root-like structures in bryophytes that anchor the plant but do not absorb water and nutrients.

Phloem

Vascular tissue in plants that transports nutrients and the products of photosynthesis.

Strobilus

A cone-like structure that produces spores in certain vascular plants.

Microphylls

Leaves with a single vascular bundle, typically found in club mosses and quillworts.

Alternation of Generations

The life cycle of plants, alternating between gametophyte (haploid) and sporophyte (diploid) stages.

Lignin

A complex organic polymer in the cell walls of vascular plants that provides structural support.

Ferns

A group of seedless vascular plants characterized by large, divided leaves called fronds.

Sori

Clusters of sporangia found on the underside of fern fronds.

Sphagnum

A genus of moss often found in bog habitats, known for its water-retaining properties.

Acidic properties of peat

Characteristics of peat bogs that prevent decay and maintain low pH levels.

Club mosses

A group of the most primitive seedless vascular plants with small leaves and strobili.

Horsetails

A group of seedless vascular plants with jointed stems, known for their scouring properties.

Quillworts

A group of aquatic or semi-aquatic plants with quill-like leaves.

Economic importance of ferns

Ferns are widely used as house and garden plants and some have medicinal properties.