Pteridophytes:: Exploring the World of Pteridophytes:

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!

1. Pteridophytes Name : Anjani Kumari Roll no : 6 Semester : 1 , Msc . Botany By : Sheelu Mam

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. Economic Importance of Pteridophytes

4. Pteridophytes are used in various 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.

13. Thank you