Phanerogams - Division II- Angiosperms

Reproductive Features

Angiosperms bear flowers, their reproductive organs. Flowers develop into fruits containing seeds. Seeds are covered by fruits, giving the name angiosperms (angios = cover, sperms = seeds).

Plant Attributes

Highly diverse, ranging from small herbs to large trees, with true roots, stems, and leaves. They have well-developed vascular system (xylem and phloem) for transport of water and nutrients

Process of Reproduction

Fertilisation occurs in flowers, resulting in seeds within fruits. Seeds have embryos and stored food for germination.

Subdivisions

Monocots: single cotyledon, parallel leaf venation, fibrous roots, floral parts in multiples of three. Seeds do not divide into equal halves, e.g., wheat, corn, and rice.

Dicots: two cotyledons, reticulate leaf venation, taproot system, floral parts in multiples of four or five. Seeds divide into two equal halves, e.g., beans, mango, and tamarind.

Habitats

Found in diverse environments, including terrestrial, aquatic, and desert ecosystems.

Environmental Role

Provide food, oxygen, and shelter, contributing to biodiversity and ecosystem balance.

Human Utility

Source of grains, fruits, vegetables, fibres (cotton, jute), wood (timber), medicinal plants, and raw materials for industries.

Specialized Features

Adapted to wide habitats, from aquatic to arid regions, with mechanisms for pollination (wind, water, insects, animals) and seed dispersal.