Asked by kaitlin whittaker on May 05, 2024
Verified
What role do rhizoids perform in mosses?
A) They structurally support the sporophyte stalk.
B) They anchor the gametophyte.
C) They take up water.
D) They absorb nutrients.
E) They act as a root underground.
Rhizoids
Hair-like structures on the surface of plants, fungi, and algae that absorb water and nutrients and anchor the organism to the substrate.
Mosses
Small, non-vascular plants that typically form dense green clumps or mats, often in moist or shady locations.
Gametophyte
The sexual phase in the life cycle of plants and algae that produces gametes through mitosis.
- Recognize the evolutionary modifications in plants that support their reproduction and persistence across diverse habitats.
Verified Answer
AA
Andualem AdugnawMay 09, 2024
Final Answer :
B
Explanation :
Rhizoids in mosses anchor the gametophyte to the substrate and absorb water and minerals, similar to roots in higher plants. However, they do not function in nutrient absorption as efficiently as roots, as mosses rely heavily on external water sources for nutrient uptake. Rhizoids do not structurally support the sporophyte stalk.
Learning Objectives
- Recognize the evolutionary modifications in plants that support their reproduction and persistence across diverse habitats.