What is the origin of the term pteridophyte?
English speakers coined the term pteridophyte in 1880 from Greek roots meaning feather and plant. These organisms are vascular plants with xylem and phloem that reproduce by means of spores.
Questions about Pteridophyte
Short answers, pulled from the story.
Which groups fall under the category of pteridophytes?
Ferns, horsetails, lycophytes, clubmosses, spikemosses, and quillworts all fall under this broad category. Ferns account for nearly 90% of extant diversity among these vascular spore plants.
When did Smith et al publish their first higher-level classification of pteridophytes?
Smith et al published their first higher-level classification in 2006 during the molecular phylogenetic era. This study considered ferns as monilophytes while placing lycophytes in a separate subdivision called Lycopodiophyta.
What system did the Pteridophyte Phylogeny Group release in 2016?
The Pteridophyte Phylogeny Group released a consensus system in 2016 known as PPG I. This framework divides living groups into two classes: Lycopodiopsida and Polypodiopsida.
How many species are included in the largest grouping of pteridophytes according to 2014 data?
Polypodiopsida remains the largest grouping with approximately 10,535 species according to 2014 data. This class includes true ferns and their allies such as whisk ferns and grape ferns.