Bryophytes: An Overview

Bryophytes are a group of non-vascular plants that include mosses, liverworts, and hornworts. They are among the earliest land plants and are found in diverse habitats, from moist tropical forests to polar regions.

Characteristics of Bryophytes

• Non-Vascular: Bryophytes lack specialized vascular tissues for the transport of water and nutrients. This limits their size and habitat range.
• Moisture-Dependent: Bryophytes require moisture for sexual reproduction, as they rely on water for the transfer of sperm to the egg.
• Reproduction: Bryophytes exhibit alternation of generations, with a haploid gametophyte stage and a diploid sporophyte stage. The gametophyte is the dominant stage in the life cycle.
• Habitat: Bryophytes are commonly found in damp, shaded environments, where they play important ecological roles in nutrient cycling and soil formation.

Study Guide

1. Describe the characteristics of bryophytes and explain how these traits influence their habitat and life cycle.
2. Compare and contrast the reproductive strategies of mosses, liverworts, and hornworts.
3. Explain the ecological importance of bryophytes in nutrient cycling and soil formation.
4. Discuss the challenges that non-vascular plants face in terrestrial environments and how they have adapted to overcome these limitations.
5. Identify common examples of mosses, liverworts, and hornworts, and describe their unique features and habitats.