Question Details

Vessels are found in

Options

A

Most of the angiosperms and few gymnosperms

B

All angiosperms and some gymnosperms

C

All pteridophytes

D

All angiosperms, all gymnosperms and some pteridophyte

Correct Answer :

Most of the angiosperms and few gymnosperms

Solution :

The correct option is "Most of the angiosperms and few gymnosperms".

Step-by-Step Explanation:

1. Understanding Vessels:
Vessels (or vessel elements) are advanced, hollow, tube-like water-conducting structures found in the xylem of vascular plants. They are aligned end-to-end and have perforated end walls (perforation plates) that allow efficient water transport. This makes them highly efficient compared to tracheids, which are primitive, long, tapering cells with pitted walls but no open perforations.

2. Occurrence in Angiosperms:
Vessels are a characteristic feature of angiosperms (flowering plants). They are present in the xylem of most angiosperms. However, they are not present in all of them; certain primitive angiosperm families (such as Winteraceae, Tetracentraceae, and Trochodendraceae) lack vessels and rely solely on tracheids for water conduction.

3. Occurrence in Gymnosperms:
Gymnosperms are generally characterized by the absence of vessels in their xylem (they conduct water using only tracheids). However, there is a key exception: the group known as Gnetophytes (which includes Gnetum, Welwitschia, and Ephedra) possesses vessels. Therefore, vessels are found in only a few gymnosperms.

4. Occurrence in Pteridophytes:
Pteridophytes (ferns and their allies) generally lack vessels and rely on tracheids. While a few exceptions exist (such as Selaginella and Equisetum), vessels are certainly not found in all pteridophytes.

Conclusion:
Since vessels are present in the majority of flowering plants (most angiosperms) and are absent in most gymnosperms except Gnetophytes (few gymnosperms), the most accurate statement is that vessels are found in most of the angiosperms and few gymnosperms.

Unlock Our Free Library

Access expert-curated educational resources and study materials—completely free.