Which structures are found in both ferns and gymnosperms?

• A. Flowers
• B. Rhizoids
• C. Seeds enclosed in fruit
• D. Vascular tissue (xylem and phloem)

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the question: The problem is asking for structures that are common to both ferns and gymnosperms. To solve this, we need to analyze the characteristics of these two plant groups.
2. Review the characteristics of ferns: Ferns are seedless vascular plants. They have vascular tissue (xylem and phloem) for transporting water, nutrients, and sugars, but they do not produce seeds, flowers, or fruits. Instead, they reproduce via spores.
3. Review the characteristics of gymnosperms: Gymnosperms are vascular plants that produce seeds but do not have flowers or fruits. They also have vascular tissue (xylem and phloem) for transport, similar to ferns.
4. Compare the structures: Flowers and seeds enclosed in fruit are absent in both ferns and gymnosperms. Rhizoids are found in non-vascular plants like mosses, not in ferns or gymnosperms. However, vascular tissue (xylem and phloem) is present in both ferns and gymnosperms, making it the correct answer.
5. Conclude: The shared structure between ferns and gymnosperms is vascular tissue, which includes xylem and phloem. This allows both plant groups to transport water and nutrients efficiently.