Evolutions and Diversity of Modern Gymnosperms and Angiosperms

Question 1

What major reproductive adaptations facilitated the evolution of the seed?

Answer 1

Wood, ovules, seeds, and pollen.

Question 2

Why are gymnosperms called “naked seed” plants?

Answer 2

The seeds are exposed, rather than enclosed in a fruit.

Question 3

What are distinguishing features of cycads and ginkgos?

Answer 3

The cycads have roots that grow above ground, and rely on pollinators for reproduction through the use of beetles. The ginkgos are nearly extinct in the wild, they have male and female trees, have sexual reproduction, and they were widely planted in cities because they are long lived and grow really slow.

Question 4

Describe two basic features that distinguish monocots from eudicots.

Answer 4

Monocots have one cotyledon and eudicots have two cotyledons.

Question 5

List 4 flower organs.

Answer 5

Sepals: green outer layer of flower
Petals: often colorful
Stamens: produce pollen
Carpals: produce ovules

Question 6

Describe how diversification of flowers and fruits enhances seed production and dispersal.

Answer 6

Clustering of flowers into groups, reduction of the wind, having fused petals that can hold more nectar.

Question 7

Name 2 types of angiosperm secondary metabolites.

Answer 7

Alkaloids and capsaicin.

Question 8

List and briefly describe at least three adaptations that have contributed to the evolutionary success of angiosperms.

Answer 8

In pollination coevolution, the pollinators have specific smells and colors that they want, so the plants in question have more pollinators. Pollination syndrome is when some flowers are for specific pollinators. Seed-dispersal coevolution, the bold color signals to the pollinator that the fruit is ready to eat.