TUTORIAL QUESTIONS

1. Only forty years ago, plants and fungi were placed in the same kingdom.
Even today, mycology (the study of fungi) is often included in botany
courses. Explain, with reference to the characteristics of these two groups,
why plants and fungi are now placed in separate kingdoms.

Plants and fungi are very different structurally and functionally and have
entirely separate origins from distinct protist ancestors. Plants are
multicellular photosynthetic eukaryotes, with cellulose cell walls, in which
the sporophyte embryo is protected within specialized structures within the
female gametophyte. Fungi are (primarily) multicellular absorptive
heterotrophic eukaryotes, with chitinous cell walls.

2. A number of adaptations have allowed plants to move from aquatic to

terrestrial habitats.

a. Give examples of specific structural and reproductive characters of

plant groups that limit them to moist or periodically moist environments.

All plants require water, however the life cycles of bryophytes and
seedless vascular plants (such as ferns) further restrict them to
periodically moist environments. The gametophytes of these groups
produce flagellated sperm that require a film of water in order for the
sperm to swim to the egg.

b. Give examples of specific structural and reproductive characters of

plant groups that allow them to survive and reproduce in dry
environments.

All plants, as compared with their algal ancestors and relatives, have a
cuticle to help prevent water loss. Some bryophytes have membranes
and organelles that are able to withstand temporary desiccation during
periods of drought. Additionally, bryophytes and ferns are able to
survive periods of drought as drought resistant spores, and then
germinate when conditions are suitable. Gymnosperm and angiosperm
are the best suited to dry environments as the sperm travel as pollen
and do not require a film of moisture. The seeds of gymnosperms and
angiosperms are also able to withstand periods of drought.

3. Fungal hyphae fuse to form a diploid nucleus, only to restore the haploid
 state by meiosis before the growth of new mycelia. What is the
significance of the formation of a transient diploid stage in fungi?

It is necessary for sexual reproduction of the fungus, and increases the

genetic variability of sexually produced offspring by mixing the genes of
two parents.

Laboratory Exam Questions

1. Use the terms adaptive radiation and adaptive zone in a few sentences
discussing one of the major periods in plant evolution.

These terms should be used correctly in a context that demonstrates

that you understand their meaning. You are welcome to check any answers
with your instructor.

2. Using the dissecting microscope, carefully examine the flower on

display.

a. Is this flower insect-pollinated or wind-pollinated?

Answer varies with flower

b. Justify your answer, with reference to specific features of the flower.

Answer varies with flower