Which of the following is true about ferns?
Select all that apply.
A they are well adapted to life in the desert ?
B the sporophyte eventually becomes nutritionally independent of the gametophyte ?
C they have roots ?
D they require water for fertilization
The correct answer and explanation is:
The correct answers are B, C, and D.
B. The sporophyte eventually becomes nutritionally independent of the gametophyte
In ferns, the life cycle includes two distinct phases: the gametophyte and the sporophyte. The gametophyte is a small, independent plant that produces sperm and eggs. The fertilized egg develops into the sporophyte, which is typically the larger, dominant structure in ferns. Initially, the young sporophyte relies on the gametophyte for nutrients, but over time, the sporophyte becomes nutritionally independent as it develops roots, stems, and leaves capable of photosynthesis.
C. They have roots
Ferns are vascular plants, meaning they possess specialized tissues for transporting water and nutrients. They have true roots, which anchor the plant to the soil and absorb water and nutrients. The roots in ferns are important for supporting the plant’s structure and ensuring it gets the necessary resources for growth.
D. They require water for fertilization
Like all non-seed plants, ferns rely on water for fertilization. The sperm produced by the male gametophyte must swim through water to reach the egg of the female gametophyte for fertilization to occur. This is one of the key reasons why ferns thrive in moist, humid environments.
A. They are well adapted to life in the desert
This statement is incorrect. Ferns are not typically well adapted to desert environments. They generally prefer humid, shaded environments where water is abundant. While some ferns can survive in a variety of climates, they are not specially adapted for desert conditions like cacti or succulents.
Ferns, therefore, have characteristics like water dependence for fertilization, true roots, and a life cycle where the sporophyte becomes independent, which are all important to their survival and reproduction in suitable environments.