Evolution and Diversity of Multicellular Organisms (#14)

Flashcards covering key concepts related to the evolution and diversity of multicellular organisms, particularly focusing on plants.

What are the characteristics that distinguish plants from animals?

Plants are photosynthetic autotrophs, have rigid cell walls made of cellulose, are stationary, grow continuously, reproduce through seeds or spores, and have slow responses to stimuli.

What is the primary process that occurs in chloroplasts?

Photosynthesis occurs in chloroplasts, converting carbon dioxide and water into glucose and oxygen using light energy.

What is a major challenge plants face when transitioning from water to land?

Desiccation Resistance: plants need to retain water and prevent drying out in a terrestrial environment.

What is the significance of the cell wall in plant cells?

The cell wall provides structural support and maintains cell shape while protecting against environmental stresses.

What adaptations have evolved in some land plants to minimize water loss?

The development of a waxy cuticle to prevent dehydration and stomatal regulation to control gas exchange and water vapor loss.

What type of relationship is presented by nonvascular plants in terms of taxonomy?

Nonvascular plants are paraphyletic because they include a common ancestor and some, but not all, of its descendants.

What type of relationship do seed plants have in taxonomy?

Seed plants are monophyletic as they include the common ancestor and all its descendants.

What are some advantages for early land plants transitioning from water to land?

Increased photosynthetic efficiency by capturing more sunlight, light competition leading to taller growth, and the evolutionary development of phototropism.

What does the term 'osmotic pressure' refer to?

Osmotic pressure is the force generated by water diffusion across a membrane that affects cell shape.

How do nonvascular plants transport water and nutrients?

Nonvascular plants rely on diffusion across their surfaces to transport water and nutrients.