Plant Biology and Evolution

These flashcards cover key vocabulary terms related to plant biology, evolution, and structure, helping students prepare for their exam.

Chloroplast

A membrane-bound organelle in photosynthetic eukaryotes containing chlorophyll for photosynthesis.

Mitochondria

Membrane-bound organelles in eukaryotes that produce energy (ATP) via cellular respiration.

Cellulose

A polysaccharide forming the primary structural component of plant cell walls.

Multicellular

Organisms with multiple cells, often specialized for different functions.

Alternation of generations

A life cycle alternating between a diploid sporophyte and haploid gametophyte phase.

Spore

A reproductive cell capable of developing into a new organism without fusion.

Sporopollenin

A tough polymer in spore and pollen walls, resistant to decay.

Sporophyte

The diploid, spore-producing phase in alternation of generations.

Gametophyte

The haploid, gamete-producing phase in alternation of generations.

Gametangia

Structures producing gametes (e.g., archegonia for eggs, antheridia for sperm).

Bryophyte

Non-vascular plants (e.g., mosses) lacking xylem and phloem.

Terrestrial

Living on land rather than in water.

Vascular tissue

Specialized tissue (xylem and phloem) for transporting water and nutrients in plants.

Waxy cuticle

A waterproof layer on plant surfaces preventing desiccation.

Stomata

Pores on plant surfaces for gas exchange and water regulation.

Xylem

Vascular tissue transporting water and minerals from roots to shoots.

Phloem

Vascular tissue transporting sugars and nutrients throughout the plant.

Evapotranspiration

The process of water moving from soil through plants and evaporating from leaves.

Capillary action

Movement of water through narrow spaces due to adhesion and cohesion.

Cohesion

Attraction between like molecules (e.g., water to water).

Adhesion

Attraction between unlike molecules (e.g., water to cell walls).

Diffusion

Passive movement of substances from high to low concentration.

Osmosis

Diffusion of water across a semipermeable membrane.

Tracheophyta

Vascular plants with xylem and phloem.

Microphylls

Small, simple leaves with a single vein, typical of early vascular plants.

Euphyllophyta

Vascular plants with complex leaves having branched veins.

Telome Theory

A model suggesting leaves evolved from branching stem systems.

Seeds

Reproductive structures containing an embryo, food supply, and protective coat.

Cones

Reproductive structures in gymnosperms bearing seeds or spores.

Flowers

Reproductive structures in angiosperms for pollination.

Fruit

The mature ovary of a flower, often aiding seed dispersal.

Pollinator

An organism that transfers pollen for plant reproduction.

Coevolution

Reciprocal evolutionary changes between two species.

Vascular tissue

Specialized tissue for transporting water (xylem) and nutrients (phloem) in plants.

Sporophyte

The diploid, spore-producing stage in the life cycle of plants.

Gametophyte

The haploid stage that produces gametes in plants.