By which type of leaf is found in selaginellaa)Aligulate and microphyl...
In Selaginella, each microphyll and sporophyll has a small scale-like outgrowth called a ligule at the base of the upper surface. The plants are heterosporous with spores of two different size classes, known as megaspores and microspores. Under dry conditions, some species of Selaginella can survive dehydration.
By which type of leaf is found in selaginellaa)Aligulate and microphyl...
Leaf Types in Selaginella:
The correct answer is option 'C', which states that the type of leaf found in Selaginella is ligulate and microphyllous. Let's understand the characteristics of these leaf types and why they are applicable to Selaginella.
Ligulate Leaves:
Ligulate leaves are strap-shaped or ribbon-like in appearance. They are typically long and narrow with parallel veins. These leaves may have a pointed or rounded tip and are usually attached to the stem by a narrow base.
Microphyllous Leaves:
Microphyllous leaves are small in size and have a simple structure. They are usually one-veined and lack a leaf gap or leaf trace. Microphyllous leaves are typically found in lycophytes, including Selaginella.
Explanation:
Selaginella is a genus of plants belonging to the family Selaginellaceae. It is commonly referred to as spikemoss and belongs to the group of plants known as lycophytes. Lycophytes are primitive vascular plants that have microphyllous leaves.
Selaginella plants have ligulate leaves, which means their leaves are strap-shaped or ribbon-like. These leaves are long and narrow, often resembling the shape of a ligule. Ligulate leaves are attached to the stem by a narrow base.
Additionally, Selaginella plants also have microphyllous leaves. Microphyllous leaves are small in size and have a simple structure with a single vein. They lack a leaf gap or leaf trace, which are features commonly found in megaphyllous leaves.
Therefore, the combination of ligulate and microphyllous leaves is characteristic of Selaginella plants. These leaves are adapted to the unique growth habits and environmental conditions of these primitive vascular plants.
In conclusion, the correct leaf type found in Selaginella is ligulate and microphyllous. These leaves play a crucial role in the growth and survival of Selaginella plants, allowing them to thrive in various habitats.
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