What are Conifers — Definition, Characteristics, Reproduction 3. Flowering plants or angiosperms are the most adaptable group of plants for the terrestrial environment. Therefore, this group contains the highest number of species on the earth, including trees, shrubs, and herbs.
Flowering plants consist of a specialized type of vascular system. Their xylem contains both tracheids and xylem vessels while their phloem contains both sieve tube elements associated with the companion cells. These specializations increase the efficiency of conduction.
Figure 1: European Crab Apple Flowers. For instance, the second characteristic feature of the flowering plants is the production of a flower as the reproductive structure. Both male and the female reproductive organs occur inside the flower. However, the flower can be either unisexual or bisexual. The ovules occur inside the ovary. Therefore, their seed is also covered by the ovary, which develops into the fruit later.
Conifers or pinophytes are the other group of higher plants with a long lifespan. They stay evergreen for a long period of time as well. Most conifers are woody plants. Their leaves are needle-like in order to prevent water loss. Therefore, conifers are more adapted to live in areas covered with snow during the winter. However, their xylem contains only tracheids while the phloem contains only sieve cells for conduction. In comparison to flowering plants, conifers do not produce flowers.
The reproductive structures of conifers are the unsexual cones. Male cones comprise microsporophylls that produce microspores while the female cones comprise megasporophylls that produce megaspores. However, just like flowering plants, conifers produce very small gametophytes that produce gametes.
Conifers are known as gymnosperms as opposed to angiosperms. They produce their seeds in cones, which are woody structures that get their name from their common shape, although their size and colour can vary widely. Conifers produce these cones and do not produce any fruit. Flowering plants, on the other hand, produce a variety of fruits, which are more complex structures designed to protect and fertilise the seeds inside. Vegetables and other seeds also count as fruit. Conifers and flowering plants both have male and female components, but they differ in how they produce them.
Conifers have two types of cones: male and female. What Is Function of the Pistil in Flowers? Six Basic Parts of a Plant. What Is the Function of the Anther on a Flower? The Life Cycle of Gymnosperms. How is Fruit Formed in Plants? Definition of Flower Filament. Kinds of Seed Plants. What Are the Adaptations of the Hibiscus Plant? Female Parts of a Flower. Examples of Wind Pollinated Flowers.
0コメント