Seed Plants Flashcards
Difference between Seeds and Spores
Seeds are a protective ‘ship’ for the embryo and can contain food for germination and establishment.
Spores are haploid, single celled. it is a reproductive structure and is adapted for dispersion and survival.
how is the bark and wood on trees produced?
they are formed through the activity of lateral meristem. the vascular cambium produces secondary xylem (wood)
the cork cambium produces bark.
what are pollen grains and why are they an important advancement in the life cycle of plants?
Pollen can be dispersed by wind, water, insects and mammals which is a lot more advanced than only relying on water- dispersed pollen in the earlier times. this has allowed seed plants to tolerate dry environments.
what are the key characteristics of gymnosperms?
Gymnosperms are plants that produce seeds that are exposed rather than enclosed in fruits. they are important timber trees and are evergreen.
how are pine needles adapted to drought and cold
Dense foliage reduces air movement around the needles, slowing evaporation. The needle is covered with a waxy cuticle that keeps snow from accumulating and slows transpiration. But the wax is also highly flammable.
