Study GuidePlant Biology–Seed Plants1. The Gymnosperm PhylaGymnosperms are seed-producing plants thatdo not form flowers or fruits. The wordgymnospermmeans“naked seed.”This refers to the fact that theirovules and seeds are exposed, usually oncone scales, rather than being enclosed inside a fruit.Unlike angiosperms (flowering plants), which all belong toone single evolutionary lineage,gymnosperms are divided intofour different phyla, each representing aseparate evolutionary line.1.1Phylum Coniferophyta (The Conifers)Conifers are thelargest and most familiar group of gymnosperms. They are mostlywoody,evergreen treeswithneedle-shaped or flattened leaves.Habitat and DistributionConifers are especially well adapted tocooler and drier environments. Today, they dominate manyforests of theNorthern Hemisphere, but they are also found in parts of theSouthern Hemisphere.Common examples include:•Pines•Firs•Spruces•Hemlocks•Yews•Junipers•Araucaria (Southern Hemisphere)Some conifers are record holders:•Sequoiasare among thetallest trees on Earth•Bristlecone pinesare among theoldest living plantsPreview Mode
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