Angiosperms

Question 1

Describe the diversity of the angiosperms?

Answer 1

Size variation is very substantial. Also have the largest flower of up to 1m. 73 fold increase in flower diameter within the angiosperms.

Plant distribution isn’t equal across the world and the distribution effectively defines the biomes of the Earth.

Question 2

What are the enhancing innovations in the angiosperm clade?

Answer 2

1. Carpel
   Fleshy ovary wall. Facilitates stigmatic surface selection and rejection. Self-incompatibility system. Pollen tube competition.
2. Woody with vascular tissue
   Gymnosperms are entirely woody and have longer generation times so not due to this.
3. Vessels
   Results in increased efficiency of water uptake and therefore growth rate.
4. Herbaceous habitat in angiosperms
   Not restricted by the need for soil. Being non woody means they can grow faster.
5. Seeds
   Gymnosperms aren’t as speciose.
6. Flowers
   Species increased in line with flower diversification.

7. Evolution of insect/animal pollination 
Many angiosperms (83%) are insect pollinated whilst gymnosperms are wind pollinated. 

8. Geography
   Higher species richness across monocot genera is associated with geographical variables.

Question 3

What are the primary traits of angiosperms?

Answer 3

1. Can live in herbaceous and non-woody habitats
2. Flower traits
3. Monocarpic life cycle
4. Polyploidy
5. Geography such as latitude and altitude

Question 4

What are the secondary traits of angiosperms?

Answer 4

1. Seeds
2. Insect and animal pollination
3. Age of lineage
4. Vessels/woodliness
5. Physiological innovations