Which structure anchors the thallus to the substrate in bryophytes?
In bryophytes, rhizoids are root-like structures that anchor the thallus to the substrate.
Ref: NCERT Class 11 Biology Chapter 3: Plant Kingdom Bryophytes - Liverworts and Mosses
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Which of the following structures helps mosses absorb and retain water?
Rhizoids in mosses function like roots, helping in water absorption and anchorage to the substrate.
Ref: NCERT Class 11 Biology Chapter 3: Plant Kingdom Bryophytes - Liverworts and Mosses
Which bryophyte shows multicellular rhizoids?
Rhizoid morphology serves as reliable diagnostic character distinguishing major bryophyte groups microscopically. Hepatophyta liverworts like Riccia fluitans and Marchantia polymorpha produce unicellular, aseptate smooth rhizoids extending from ventral thallus surface for anchorage and external capillary water absorption via external conduction. Anthoceros hornwort similarly has unicellular rhizoids. In contrast, Bryopsida mosses like Funaria hygrometrica develop multicellular, branched rhizoids with oblique transverse cross walls providing stronger attachment, internal conduction and substrate colonization. Multicellular architecture improves desiccation tolerance and distinguishes mosses phylogenetically. This structural framework illustrates phylogenetic relationships and adaptive significance highlighted in competitive examinations focusing on comparative plant morphology and systematics.
Ref: Smith 1955 Bryophytes; Watson 1971 Structure British Mosses; Goffinet Multicellular rhizoids