Q3 of 29 Page 12

Heterospory i.e., formation of two types of spores – microspores and megaspores is a characteristic feature in the life cycle of a few members of pteridophytes and all spermatophytes. Do you think heterospory has some evolutionary significance in plant kingdom?

• Yes, heterospory has evolutionary significance in plants.


• Heterospory led to in situ embryo development. The embryo derives nutrition from the female gametophyte and hence are better protected.


• Heterospory led to the evolution of seed habit, which helped the plants to flourish and tide over long periods of unfavourable conditions.


More from this chapter

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1

Why are bryophytes called the amphibians of the plant kingdom?

 2

The male and female reproductive organs of several pteridophytes and gymnosperms are comparable to floral structures of angiosperms. Make an attempt to compare the various reproductive parts of pteridophytes and gymnosperms with reproductive structures of angiosperms.

 4

How far does Selaginella one of the few living members of lycopodiales (pteridophytes) fall short of seed habit.

 5

Each plant or group of plants has some phylogenetic significance in relation to evolution : Cycas, one of the few living members of gymnosperms is called as the ‘relic of past’. Can you establish a phylogenetic relationship of Cycas with any other group of plants that justifies the above statement?