Selaginella and Salvinia are considered to represent a significant ste...
The correct answer is option D, which states that Selaginella and Salvinia represent a significant step toward the evolution of seed habit because the embryo develops in the female gametophyte, which is retained on the parent sporophyte. Let us understand this in detail.
Explanation:
- Selaginella and Salvinia are two groups of plants that belong to the division Pteridophyta. They are primitive plants that do not produce seeds like the higher plants (gymnosperms and angiosperms).
- However, they show some features that are considered as steps toward the evolution of seed habit. One of these features is the retention of the female gametophyte on the parent sporophyte.
- In these plants, after fertilization, the zygote develops into an embryo within the female gametophyte. This female gametophyte remains attached to the parent sporophyte and continues to receive nutrients from it. This is in contrast to the seed plants, where the female gametophyte is enclosed within the seed and gets dispersed away from the parent plant.
- The retention of the female gametophyte on the parent sporophyte provides several advantages, such as protection from desiccation and predation, and a continuous supply of nutrients to the developing embryo.
- The presence of this feature in Selaginella and Salvinia suggests that it was a crucial step in the evolution of seed habit. In seed plants, the female gametophyte is retained within the seed, which is dispersed away from the parent plant, ensuring the survival of the embryo under harsh conditions.
Conclusion:
Thus, the development of the embryo within the female gametophyte, which is retained on the parent sporophyte, is a significant step toward the evolution of seed habit. This feature is present in Selaginella and Salvinia, which are primitive plants and provide insights into the evolution of seed plants.
Selaginella and Salvinia are considered to represent a significant ste...
In selaginella and salvinia heterosporous conditions occurs...
ND also the embryo retained on plant sporophytes....
Refer ncert class 11 bio
To make sure you are not studying endlessly, EduRev has designed NEET study material, with Structured Courses, Videos, & Test Series. Plus get personalized analysis, doubt solving and improvement plans to achieve a great score in NEET.