Question

There are two main theories to explain why Angiosperm Diversity is much greater than other groups. Describe the two theories and proved an example of each.

Answer 1

Angiosperms are the most advanced plant groups.They are flowering plants with well developed vascular system and bears seeds enclosed in fruits.Angiosperms have considered to be evolved during the cretaceous period along with insects.So these plants have evolved in different patterns and shapes to attaract insects for pollination. Th insects increases the rate of cross pollination thus leading to genetic recombinations and diversification. Through these insects and other pollinators like animals,wind ,water etc. pollen and seeds were transmitted to different places and lead to the diversification and spread of angiosperms.Angiosperms have small pollen grains then other plant groups that leads to easy transmission of pollen from plant to plant.Male and female reproductive structures are adapted to produce more number of seeds than non flowering plants thus leading to its spread and diversification.Angiosperms also produce endosperm that gives nourishment to the developing embryo and seedlings thus increasing the survival rate.

Another feature responsible for diversification is that angiosperms have more number of stomata and veins than other plant groups.This increases the rate of photosynthesis and transportation of food and water across the plants.Increased photosynthesis helps to produce more food resources and helps for the survival in hard conditions.