Ferns, horsetails and lycophytes belong to which of the following groups?

Question

Question

This question was previously asked in

SSC CGL 2023 Tier-I Official Paper (Held On: 18 Jul 2023 Shift 1)

Answer 1

The correct answer is Pteridophyta.

Key Points

Ferns, horsetails, and lycophytes all belong to the group referred to as Pteridophyta.
These represent some of the earlier forms of vascular plants on Earth.
They are classified as a subdivision of the plant kingdom, known as cryptogams, which do not produce seeds or flowers.
Pteridophyta plants reproduce via spores, which are usually located on the underside of the fronds (leaves) in organs or structures called sporangia.
The life cycle of Pteridophytes includes two distinct phases – the large, prominent sporophyte and a less visible, but still independent gametophyte also known as a prothallium.
These plants are typically found in damp, shaded areas, though some have adapted to a variety of other habitats. Ferns, in particular, are known for their feather-like fronds and intricate patterns.

Additional Information

Bryophyta:
- Bryophyta constitute the group of plants known as mosses and liverworts.
- They often grow in moist, shaded areas and are non-vascular, meaning they lack tissues for transporting water and nutrients.
- Unlike ferns, mosses reproduce using spores but are more primitive, often growing low to the ground.
Algae:
- Algae is a diverse group of aquatic, photosynthetic organisms.
- They form a crucial part of the food chain in aquatic ecosystems and can range from microscopic sizes (microalgae) to massive kelp.
- Algae is not a homogeneous group but a term used to describe organisms from different evolutionary backgrounds that share some common features.
Fungi:
- Fungi are a kingdom of usually multicellular eukaryotic organisms which are heterotrophic, meaning they obtain nutrients by consuming organic matter.
- They play a crucial role in nutrient cycling in ecosystems and include yeasts, molds, and mushrooms.
- Some fungi form symbiotic relationships with plants, aiding in nutrient absorption, while others can be pathogenic, causing diseases in plants and animals.