Angiosperms, Definition, Classification, and Characteristics

Angiosperms , also known as flowering plants, are a significant group of plants studied in biology. They are the most diverse and largest group of plants on Earth, containing more than 250,000 species. Angiosperms are critical for the environment, economy, and human life. Understanding them is essential for the NEET Exam because they cover various topics in plant biology, including classification, structure, reproduction, and importance.

Angiosperms Definition

Classification of Angiosperms

• Monocots: These plants have only one cotyledon in the seed. Their leaves usually have parallel veins, and their flower parts typically come in multiples of three. Examples include grasses, lilies, and orchids.
• Dicots: These plants have two cotyledons in the seed. Their leaves generally have reticulate veins, and their flower parts typically come in multiples of four or five. Examples include roses, sunflowers, and beans.

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Characteristics of Angiosperms

• Flowers: Angiosperms are the only group of plants that produce flowers, which are the reproductive structures. Flowers contain male (stamens) and female (pistils) reproductive organs.
• Fruits : After fertilization, the ovary of the flower develops into a fruit that contains seeds.
• Seeds: The seeds of angiosperms are enclosed in a fruit, unlike gymnosperms, where seeds are exposed.
• Vascular Tissu e: Angiosperms have well-developed vascular tissue (xylem and phloem), which helps in the transport of water, minerals, and food throughout the plant.
• Double Fertilization: A unique feature of angiosperms is double fertilization, where one sperm cell fertilizes the egg, while another sperm cell fuses with two other nuclei to form the endosperm, which nourishes the developing embryo.
• Pollination: Angiosperms rely on various methods of pollination , including wind, insects, birds, and water, which facilitate fertilization.

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Importance of Angiosperms

• Food Source: Many of the plants we use as food, such as fruits, vegetables, grains, and legumes, are angiosperms.
• Medicinal Uses: Numerous medicines and therapeutic products come from angiosperms, which contain important bioactive compounds.
• Economic Value: Angiosperms, like cotton, rubber, and timber-producing plants, have economic value. They contribute to industries such as agriculture, textiles, and construction.
• Oxygen Production: Through photosynthesis , angiosperms release oxygen, which is essential for life on Earth.
• Carbon Sequestration: Angiosperms help in reducing carbon dioxide levels in the atmosphere, thus playing a role in combating climate change.

MCQs of Angiosperms

Q1. Winged pollen grains are present in;

1. Mustard
2. Cycas
3. Mango
4. Pinus

Q2. Which of the following statements is correct? (2018)

1. Ovules are not enclosed by the ovary wall in gymnosperms.
2. Selaginella is heterosporous, while Salvinia is homosporous.
3. Horsetails are gymnosperms.
4. Stems are usually unbranched in both Cycas and Cedrus.

Q3. Select the mismatched pair;

1. Pinus - Dioecious
2. Cycas - Dioecious
3. Salvinia - Heterosporous
4. Equisetum - Homosporous

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Answers of MCQs of Angiosperms