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BOT 102 BOT 102 Review Objective Question

Question

What is an unusual feature distinguishing Hornworts from other land plants, as mentioned in the notes?
Options
A They have a flattened, dichotomously-branching thallus.
B Their sporophyte grows continuously from a basal meristem.
Correct Answer
C They require water for fertilisation.
D Their gametophyte is the dominant generation.
Correct Answer

Option B is the correct answer.

Detailed Explanation

Section 3.2.4 Morphology of Hornworts (e.g., Anthoceros) highlights: "Hornworts... are distinguished by a long, horn-shaped... sporophyte that grows continuously from a basal meristem and typically contains a single large chloroplast per cell — an unusual feature among land plants (most plant cells have many small chloroplasts)." Both continuous growth from a basal meristem and the single large chloroplast are unusual, but continuous growth of the sporophyte is a key morphological distinction.

Hint

Look for characteristics described as 'distinguishing' or 'unusual' for Hornworts.

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