Chapter 21, Problem 34A

Summary Introduction

To write: A list of the traits use to differentiate between coniferophytes and antophytes..

Introduction: vascular seed plants produce seeds. Each seed usually contains a tiny sporophyte surrounded by protective tissue. Seeds have one or more cotyledons, structures that either store food or help absorb food for the tiny sporophyte. Plants whose seeds are part of fruits are called angiosperms. Those plants whose seeds are not part of fruits are called gymnosperms.

Explanation of Solution

The conifers of the division coniferophyta range in size from low-growing shrubs that are several centimeters tall to towering trees over 50 m in height. The reproductive structures of most conifers develop in cones. Conifers like all plants exhibit adaptations to their environments. Another adaptation is a wax like coating called cutin that covers conifer needle-like or scale-like leaves and reduces water loss.

Flowering plants or anthophyta are the most widely distributed plants because of adaptations that enable them to grow in terrestrial and aquatic environments. Anthophytes, also known as angiosperms, first appeared in the fossil record about 130 million years ago. 75 percent of anthophytes are eudicots and include many trees, shrubs, and garden plants.

Conclusion

As other plants, conifers show adaptations to their habitats. Another adaptation is a wax like coating called cutin which covers the needlelike or scale like leaves of conifers and reduces water losses. The most widely spread plants are flowering plants or anthophytes because of adaptations that enable them to develop in terrestrial and aquatic environments