1. Gymnosperms used to dominate the natural landscapes in the early (Triassic) and middle (Jurassic) Mesozoic era. However, today, in countries like Botswana they do not exist naturally. Based on their characteristics, explain at least 3 reasons why they have disappeared in these area and many other parts of the world.

Which of the following traits characterizes gym nosperms? The plants carry exposed seeds on modified leaves Reproductive structures are located in a flower After fertilization, the ovary thickens and forms a fruit The gametophyte is the longest phase of the life cycle.

1. Based on the readings you encountered in the course about gymnosperms, in general and cycads, in particular, explain the main morphological, anatomical and reproductive features that could have contributed to the continued survival of their lineages up to the present. 2. Explain the specific morphological, anatomical and reproductive features of cycads that make them more prone (relative to other gymnosperms) to extinction risks from man-made disturbances such as habitat-clearing and poaching.  3. Read the following article about the cycad. Does the Loneliest Plant in the World Need Help?https://www.nationalgeographic.com/science/article/does-the-loneliest-plant-in-the-world-need-help There are two genetics/technology -based interventions mentioned to help save the cycad species. Encephalartos woodii from extinction. What is your reaction to the author’s view about these approaches, do you agree or disagree? What other approaches can you propose to help solve the problem, given that…

1. Differentiate between:a. Homosporous and heterosporous plants b. Sporophyte and gametophyte plants c. Lycopodium and Selaginella  2. Why is Isoetes called quillwort?