Classification of Gymnosperms

Gymnosperms are classified into 4 types. Each group is distinguished by its unique characteristics, and they all play important ecological roles in their respective habitats, those are:

Cycadophyta

Cycads are dioecious (meaning: individual plants are either all male or female). Cycads are seed-bearing plants and most of the individuals are presently extinct. They grow during the Jurassic and late Triassic times. These days, plants are considered relics from past times. 

These gymnosperms plants generally have big compound leaves, thick trunks, and little pamphlets which are connected to a central stem. They range in level from any place between some centimeters to a few meters. Cycads are generally seen in the tropics and subtropics region. Some Cycadophyta is adapted to dry conditions and some likewise have adjusted to oxygen-poor damp conditions. Examples: Cycas, Zamia, Zamiaceae.

Ginkgophyta

Only one, Ginkgophyta is a living animal group. Any remaining individuals from this class are extinct. The Ginkgo trees are described by their big size and their fan-like leaves. Likewise, Ginkgo trees have an enormous number of uses going from medication to cooking. Ginkgo leaves are ingested as a solution for memory-related diseases like Alzheimer’s. 

Gnetophyta

Gnetophytes are additionally relics from an earlier time. Today, just three individuals from this family exist. Gnetophytes typically comprise tropical plants, trees, and shrubs. They show the phenotype of colorful leaves that are covered with a soft coating. This cover tells a hereditary association with angiosperms. Gnetophytes vary from different individuals from this class as they have vessel components in their xylem. Example: Ephedra, Gnetum.

Coniferophyta

These are the most ordinarily known species among the gymnosperm family. They are evergreen; consequently, in winters they don’t shed their leaves. These are essentially described by male and female cones with structures like a needle. Coniferous trees are normally found in temperate zones where the typical temperature is 10 ℃. Monster sequoia, pines, cedar, and redwood are instances of Conifers. Examples: redwood trees, junipers, cypress trees, tidy trees, and hemlocks.

Gymnosperms are a group of seed-bearing plants that do not produce flowers or fruits. Gymnosperms are not surrounded by fruit. They are believed to have first appeared during the Carboniferous period and became the dominant land plants during the Mesozoic era. In this article, we will cover gymnosperm notes, their classification, characteristics, and more.