Question

A characteristic of Cycas that resembles ferns is:

• A. Circinate ptyxis
• B. Sori in microsporophyll
• C. Uniflagellated male gamete
• D. Both A and B

Answer 1

Answer: (D)

Both A and B

Answer 2

Both Cycas and ferns share the characteristic of circinate ptyxis. This trait entails a specific method where young leaves unfurl as they mature, coiling from the tip towards the base, reminiscent of the shape of a shepherd’s crook when viewed from above.

Regarding alternative options:
(B) Sori in microsporophyll: Sori are clusters of spore-producing units typically found on the underside of fern leaves. In contrast, Cycas produces seeds in cones rather than spores.
(C) Uniflagellated male gamete: This refers to a sperm with a single flagellum for movement. However, both ferns and Cycas possess multiflagellated male gametes.

Therefore, the common characteristics between ferns and Cycas are circinate ptyxis and multiflagellated male gametes.

So, the correct option is (A): Circinate Ptyxis.