Gymnosperms Differ from Both Extinct and Extant (Living)ferns Because They

Question

Gymnosperms differ from both extinct and extant (living)ferns because they
A) are woody.
B) have macrophylls.
C) have pollen.
D) have sporophylls.
E) have spores.

Accepted Answer

Gymnosperms have pollen, while ferns do not. This is one of the key characteristics that sets gymnosperms apart from ferns.

Answer: A and D
 Both gymnosperms and extinct ferns were able to develop woody tissue, but extant ferns are herbaceous. Additionally, both gymnosperms and ferns have sporophylls, which are modified leaves that bear sporangia (structures that produce spores). However, gymnosperms differ from ferns (extinct and extant) in that they have pollen instead of spores, which allows for a more efficient method of reproduction.