Exploring the World of Pteridophytes: An Introduction
Welcome to our presentation on Pteridophytes, a fascinating group of vascular plants that have been captivating scientists and nature enthusiasts alike for centuries.
What are Pteridophytes?
Pteridophytes are a diverse group of plants that belong to the division Pteridophyta. Unlike non-vascular plants such as mosses and liverworts, Pteridophytes possess vascular tissues that enable them to transport water and nutrients throughout their structures. This evolutionary advancement allows them to grow larger and more complex than their non-vascular counterparts.
Key Features of Pteridophytes
One of the defining features of Pteridophytes is their reproductive system, which typically involves the production of spores. These spores are housed in structures called sporangia, which are often clustered together on the underside of specialized leaves known as fronds. When released, spores can germinate into tiny, heart-shaped structures called gametophytes, which eventually give rise to the familiar fern-like plants we recognize.
Diversity of Pteridophytes
Pteridophytes exhibit a remarkable diversity in size, shape, and habitat preferences. From the delicate maidenhair ferns that grace forest floors to the towering tree ferns of tropical rainforests, there is a Pteridophyte species for almost every environment on Earth. Some species thrive in moist, shaded habitats, while others can tolerate drier conditions. This adaptability has allowed Pteridophytes to colonize a wide range of ecosystems across the globe.
Ecological Significance
Pteridophytes play a vital role in ecosystems worldwide. They contribute to soil stabilization, prevent erosion, and provide habitats for a variety of organisms, including insects, birds, and small mammals. Additionally, some Pteridophyte species are valued for their ornamental beauty and are cultivated in gardens and landscapes around the world.
Challenges and Conservation
Despite their ecological importance, many Pteridophyte species face threats from habitat loss, climate change, and invasive species. Conservation efforts are underway to protect vulnerable species and their habitats, including the establishment of protected areas, habitat restoration initiatives, and public education campaigns to raise awareness about the importance of preserving these unique plants.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Pteridophytes represent a diverse and fascinating group of plants that have evolved remarkable adaptations to thrive in a variety of environments. By studying and appreciating these ancient organisms, we gain valuable insights into the complexities of plant evolution and ecology, and we become better stewards of the natural world. Join us as we embark on a journey to discover the beauty and significance of Pteridophytes!
2. PTERIDOPHYTES
Pteridophytes are plants that do not have any
flowers or seeds. Hence another name for it is
Cryptogams. They include ferns and horsetails. In
fact, they can be considered as the first terrestrial
vascular plants, showing the presence of the
vascular tissue, xylem, and phloem. Mostly, we find
these plants in damp and shady places
3.
4. PTERIDOPHYTES ARE USED INVARIOUS FIELDS
As soil conservation
As bio fertilizer
As food
As ornamental
As entertainment
As medicinal used
As chemical production
5. AS SOIL CONSERVATION
Usually pteridophytes plants are terrestrial so
they protect the upper part of soil.
They protect soil from heavy rainfall.
They help in stopping soil erosion.
e.g. Pteris, Dryopteris, Nephrolepis etc.
Dryopteris
Pteris
6. AS BIO FERTILIZER
Pteridophytes plants are very helpful for the
formation of bio-fertilisers.
Azolla spp. are very helpful for the formation of bio
fertiliser because root have Anabena help nitrogen
fixation. Azolla spp.
7. AS FOOD
Many plants are edible and used in form of vegetable.
Ampelopteris , prolifera , Isoetes used as food.
Osmunda cinnamomea use as vegetable.
Azolla also used as food production they have higher
carbohydrates and protein values.
Equisetum are vense whole plant are used in food
production.
The tuber of Isoetes are used as food.
Neprolepis biserrata rhizome are edible.
Ampelopteris
8. AS ORNAMENTAL
Few pteridophytes are used as ornamental
Lycopodium obscurum called "Christmas tree“ are used
as grassland during Christmas festival and for purpose of
decoration.
Lycopodium volubile is very commonly used by
decoration.
Selaginella plant also used during Christmas festival as
grassland and various type of table decoration. Lycopodium volubile
9. AS ENTERTAINMENT
Few species of Selaginella such as Selaginella
lepdophylla and S.pilifera are called
resurrection plant.
Selaginella
10. AS MEDICAL USE
Pteridophytes, which include ferns, have
limited and relatively minor medicinal
uses compared to other plant groups.
Nevertheless, some pteridophytes have
been used in traditional medicine for
various purposes.
Plant Medicinal Uses
Pteris multifold used in cancer, diarrhoea
hepatitis
Ophioglassum costatum Used in antiviral, antidote to
snake bite, their rhizome used
in bleeding nose.
Marsilea condensata Leaves are used, diuretic and
plant used in snake
bitediarrhoea.
Lygodium japonicum Used for expulsion of
intestional worms.
11. AS CHEMICAL PRODUCTION
Pteridophytes are known to produce proanthocyanidins which are present in a poly.
The anthocyanin pigments in some fern species have been employed to create
various colors in traditional dyeing processes.merized molecular form, as tannins.
Some pteridophytes release allelopathic compounds, chemicals that can inhibit the
growth of neighboring plants.
12. HARMFUL ACTIVITIES
Pteridophytes are mostly useful but few are harmful.
Few pteridophytes are abnoxious weeds so they are harmful for animal and
for crop plant.
Pteridium aquilinum they are cosmopolitan they are poisonous for Cattle and
Horse.
