What are the major divisions in the Plantae? What is the basis for these divisions?
[5 Marks]
Kingdom Plantae is divided into five main divisions. The major divisions of Plantae are Thallophyta, Bryophyta, Pteridophyta, Gymnosperms and Angiosperms.
[1 Mark]
These divisions are based on the following criteria:
1) Differentiated or undifferentiated plant body
2) Presence or absence of vascular tissues for the transport of water and other substances
3) Presence or absence of seeds
4) Seeds naked or enclosed within fruits
[1 Mark]
Thallophyta: Simple body design; with no differentiation into root, stem and leaves.
Bryophyta: Body is differentiated into stem and leaf-like structures. The vascular system is absent.
Pteridophyta: Body is differentiated into root, stem and leaves. The vascular system is present. Reproductive organs are inconspicuous. Seeds are not produced.
Gymnosperms: Seeds are naked.
Angiosperms: Seeds are enclosed within fruits.
[3 Marks]