Plant Evolution
Plant Evolution Evolved from green algae (450 mya) Both have same type of chlorophyll, store energy as starch, DNA similarities Green algae ancestor Multicellular body Cells w/ channels to communicate Reproduce w/ sperm & egg Early plants Low growth (nonvascular)
Land Adaptations cuticle Challenge: Retain Moisture Early plants grew near water’s edge Those that could survive longer dry periods were favored through natural selection Adaptations: Cuticle: waxy coating Stomata: pores to allow gas exchange
Land Adaptations Challenge: Transporting Resources Adaptation: glucose water Challenge: Transporting Resources Adaptation: Vascular system: tissue to transport nutrients Up from the roots (ex: water) Down from the leaves (ex: sugars) Allows for taller growth
Land Adaptations Challenge: Growing upright Mortar Lignin Challenge: Growing upright Large plants need to support own weight Adaptation: Lignin: hardens cell wall; gives wood strength
Land Adaptations Challenge: Reproduction on land Adaptations: Pollen: carried by wind/animals Seeds: hard coat protects embryo inside
Plant Ecology & Evolutionary Relationships Mutualistic relationships Type of symbiosis where both organisms benefit Ex: Plants (provides living space)/Bacteria (create nutrients) Ex: Plants (provide food)/Animal (help pollinate) Herbivore interactions Defense adaptations Spines, thorns, chemicals
Review What traits do plants and plant-like protista (algae) share? Name 4 adaptations that plants have for life on land. Which plant adaptation allows them to carry nutrients to great heights? Which plant adaptation allows them to retain moisture? What is the purpose of lignin? Explain a symbiotic relationship between plants and other organisms? How do plants protect themselves from predators?