Biology - Chapter 3: Plant Kingdom

Understanding Plant Classification: From Algae to Flowering Plants

1. Classification of Plant Kingdom

Group Key Characteristics Examples
Algae Simple thallus body structure Spirogyra
Bryophytes Amphibious plants (require water for reproduction) Moss
Pteridophytes Vascular plants with true roots, stems, and leaves Ferns
Gymnosperms Seeds are naked (not enclosed in fruit) Pinus
Angiosperms Flowering plants with seeds enclosed in fruits Mango

2. Important Questions & Answers

Q1. Name the three main classes of Algae and their pigments.
Answer:
1. Chlorophyceae (Green Algae): Chlorophyll a and b
2. Phaeophyceae (Brown Algae): Chlorophyll a, c and Fucoxanthin
3. Rhodophyceae (Red Algae): Chlorophyll a, d and Phycoerythrin
Q2. Why are Bryophytes called the amphibians of the plant kingdom?
Answer: Bryophytes live on land but require water for reproduction. The male gametes need water to reach the female reproductive organ.
Q3. What is Heterospory?
Answer: Heterospory refers to the formation of two types of spores: microspores and megaspores. It is an important step in the evolution of seed habit.
Q4. Differentiate between Gymnosperms and Angiosperms.
Answer: Gymnosperms have naked seeds and do not form fruits, whereas Angiosperms have seeds enclosed within fruits and produce flowers.
Q5. What is the difference between Gametophyte and Sporophyte?
Answer: Gametophyte is the haploid stage that produces gametes, whereas Sporophyte is the diploid stage that produces spores.
Q6. Which group shows double fertilization?
Answer: Double fertilization is a unique feature of Angiosperms. One male gamete forms the embryo, while the other forms the endosperm.