[Campbell Biology P.685] According to the provided text, which of the following are key adap... | Practice Question

According to the provided text, which of the following are key adaptations that enabled seed plants to thrive on land? Select all that apply.

  • A: Reduced male and female gametophytes developing within parental sporophytes, protected from environmental stresses.
  • B: Pollen protecting male gametophytes and allowing transport by wind or animals.
  • C: Ovules protecting female gametophytes and their eggs.
  • D: Development of seeds, including an embryo, protective seed coat, and food supply.
  • E: A simplified life cycle exclusively relying on asexual reproduction.
  • F: Exclusive reliance on water for sperm transport.

Explanation

The text explicitly lists these as adaptations: reduced gametophytes protected within sporophytes A , pollen for male gametophyte transport without water B , ovules for protecting female gametophytes C , and seeds for embryo protection and nourishment D . These collectively allowed seed plants to conquer terrestrial environments.