Question

Which one of the following is not common between Funaria and Selaginella

• A. archegonium
• B. embryo
• C. flagellate sperms
• D. roots.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

The question asks which characteristic is not common between Funaria and Selaginella. To answer this, let's explore the characteristics of both Funaria and Selaginella:

1. Archegonium: Both Funaria and Selaginella produce archegonia, which are the female reproductive organs in plants. Hence, this is common between the two.
2. Embryo: Both Funaria and Selaginella produce an embryo during their life cycles. This trait is common to all land plants as part of alternation of generations.
3. Flagellate Sperms: Both plants have flagellate sperms, which enables them to move through water to reach and fertilize the female gamete. This characteristic is found in many lower plants including bryophytes like Funaria and some pteridophytes like Selaginella.
4. Roots: Here lies the key difference. Funaria, being a type of moss (bryophyte), does not have true roots. Instead, it has structures called rhizoids that help in anchorage and water absorption. On the other hand, Selaginella, a type of pteridophyte, has true roots.

In conclusion, the characteristic that is not common between Funaria and Selaginella is roots. Funaria has rhizoids while Selaginella has true roots.

Therefore, the correct answer is roots.