Question

The Thallophyta, Bryophyta, and Pteridophyta are called ‘Cryptogams’. Gymnosperms and Angiosperms are called ‘Phanerogams’. Discuss why? Draw one example of Gymnosperm.

Answer 1

Division of plant kingdom:

Carl Linnaeus divided the plant kingdom into Cryptogams and Phanerogams.

Cryptogams:

1. The plants or organisms that are similar to plants that have the ability to bear spores and undergo reproduction but do not form spores are called cryptogams.
2. This word means hidden reproduction.
3. Thallophyta, Pteridophyta, and Bryophyta are spore-bearing plants and seed formation doesn't take place within these plants. So, they are called cryptogams.

Phanerogams:

1. The plants which have the ability to bear seed are called phanerogams.
2. They are also known as spermatophytes.
3. Both gymnosperms and angiosperms can produce seeds and they are included in phanerogams.
4. Examples of Gymnosperms: Cycas and Pinus.