Plant Reproduction and Angiosperm Diversity

Flashcards covering key concepts from lecture notes on plant reproduction, lifecycle stages, the characteristics of different plant groups, and the distinct features of Angiosperms, Monocots, and Eudicots.

What are the key topics covered in the lecture regarding plant origin?

The origin of eukaryotic cells and plants, focusing on Alternation of Generation, Sporophyte & Gametophyte, Haploid & Diploid states, and Mitosis & Meiosis.

Which plant group will this course primarily focus on?

Angiosperm seed plants, which appeared 375 million years ago.

What is the sporophyte generation (2n) in plant lifecycles?

The most familiar plant parts that produce haploid (n) spores by meiosis, which then grow into gametophytes.

What is the gametophyte generation (n) in plant lifecycles?

A state in which some plants grow that produces haploid gametes by mitosis; the fusion of these gametes produces a diploid sporophyte.

What is the end result of mitosis?

Two identical daughter cells.

What is the end result of meiosis?

Four haploid cells.

What is the predominant generation in mosses?

The gametophyte (1n) generation.

What are the characteristics of mosses?

Gametophyte dominant (n), reproduce using spores, require water, and have reduced leaves and roots.

What is the predominant generation in ferns?

The sporophyte generation, although gametophyte and sporophyte are more balanced than in mosses.

What are the characteristics of ferns?

They are the first vascular plants, have more complex leaves and roots, the sporophyte is dominant, they reproduce using spores, and require water.

Which generation dominates in Angiosperms and Gymnosperms ('higher plants')?

The sporophyte (2n) generation.

What does the term 'Angiosperm' mean?

'Enclosed seed'.

What are the three unique features of Angiosperms (the '3 F words')?

Flowers, Double fertilization, and Fruit.

What percentage of the plant kingdom's diversity do Angiosperms make up?

Approximately 90%, with over 300 families and 250,000 species.

How many cotyledons do Monocots have?

One cotyledon.

How many cotyledons do Eudicots have?

Two cotyledons.

In Monocots, what are the flower parts typically like?

Arranged in multiples of 3.

In Eudicots, what are the flower parts typically like?

Arranged in multiples of 4 or 5.

Describe the leaf venation commonly found in Monocots.

Parallel veins.

Describe the leaf venation commonly found in Eudicots.

A network of veins.

What type of root system do Monocots typically have?

A primary root replaced by adventitious roots (fibrous root system).

What type of root system do Eudicots typically have?

A primary root that can persist (tap root).

Describe the vasculature in Monocots.

Vascular tissue is scattered, with no secondary growth.

Describe the vasculature in Eudicots.

Vascular tissue forms a ring, with secondary growth.

How many pores or furrows do Monocot pollen grains typically have?

One pore (furrow).

How many pores or furrows do Eudicot pollen grains typically have?

Three or more furrows.

What is the primary function of a flower in Angiosperm reproduction?

To produce gametes (ovule, pollen), protect and nourish the megaspore gamete, capture male gametes, nourish embryos, and develop seeds and fruits.

What is a seed?

An embryo and a nutrient source surrounded by a protective coat.

What is a fruit?

An enlarged ovary that contains seeds.

What are the four floral organs of an angiosperm flower?

Sepals, Petals, Stamens, and Carpels.

What does a stamen consist of?

A stalk (filament) and an anther, where pollen is produced.

What does a carpel consist of?

An ovary at the base, a style, and a stigma, where pollen is received.

What is an 'incomplete' flower?

A flower that lacks one or more of the four floral organs (sepals, petals, stamens, or carpels).

What are 'monoecious plants'?

Plants where male (staminate) and female (pistillate) flowers are separate but carried on the same plant.

What is the function of the stigma in a flower?

To capture pollen, often having an irregular and sticky surface.