Chapter 27: Plant Form, Function, and Diversity

Flashcards covering key terms, definitions, and concepts related to plant form, function, and diversity.

Alternation of generations

A life cycle in which a multicellular diploid phase alternates with a multicellular haploid phase.

Bryophyte

A group of small, non-vascular plants, which include mosses, liverworts, and hornworts.

Xylem

Vascular tissue in plants responsible for water transport.

Phloem

Vascular tissue in plants responsible for transporting nutrients and sugars produced by photosynthesis.

Gymnosperm

Seed plants that produce pollen and seeds in cones.

Angiosperm

Seed plants that produce flowers and fruits, and are the most diverse group of plants.

Stomata

Small openings on the surfaces of leaves that allow gas exchange.

Sphagnum

A type of moss that is important for its ability to retain water and form peat bogs.

Cotyledon

The first leaf or leaves that appear from a seed during germination.

Vascular cambium

A layer of tissue that produces new xylem and phloem in vascular plants.

Epiphyte

Plants that grow on other plants for physical support but are not parasitic.

Cycad

A group of gymnosperms known for their large, evergreen leaves and cones.

Lycophyte

A group of vascular plants that includes club mosses and is characterized by specialized leaves.

Tracheid

A type of water-conducting cell found in the xylem of vascular plants.

Peat bog

Wetland area characterized by the accumulation of sphagnum moss and organic materials.

Cuticle

A protective layer covering the leaves and stems of plants, helping to prevent water loss.