Question Detail

The table on page 16 shows under 'Phloem Composition': 'Pteridophytes' have 'Sieve cells, no companion cells' and 'Gymnosperms' have 'Sieve cells, albuminous cells' (albuminious cells act as companion cells but are not true companion cells). The question uses 'no companion cells', which more strictly applies to Pteridophytes. However, given the options, and the distinction from Angiosperms (which have sieve tubes and companion cells), both Pteridophytes and Gymnosperms (lacking true companion cells) are grouped. Let's re-read the exact text: 'Sieve cells, no companion cells' for Pteridophytes and 'Sieve cells, albuminous cells' for Gymnosperms. Albuminous cells are analogous to companion cells but not true companion cells. So, for the strict definition of 'no companion cells', Pteridophytes fit perfectly. If 'no true companion cells' is implied, Gymnosperms could also be included. Let's choose the most accurate. Page 22 also states for Gymnosperms: 'They have no companion cells in their phloem'. Therefore, both Pteridophytes and Gymnosperms lack true companion cells. So D is correct.