Question

Which among the following is the smallest gymnosperm?
a. Cycas
b. Pinus
c. Zamia
d. Gnetum

Answer 1

Hint: Gymnosperms are the group of plants that do not bear seed in the fruit or ovary. They are generally devoid of fruits. They are flowerless plants that do not contain seeds in the fruits. They are seed-bearing vascular plants. They can reproduce either by sexual or by asexual methods. Conifers, Pinus are some of the examples of gymnosperms.

Complete answer:
Zamia pygmaea is the smallest cycad among the following. These are grown in open dry habitats. Zamia pygmaea, along with Zamia. angustifolia, is one of the most xerophytes brush-covered the genus. These plants occur in dry areas, brush-covered hills, pine forests, and areas of white sand. So the correct option is C that is Zamia.

Cycas is gymnosperm that is considered as a shrub but some of the species belonging to the height of 20-60 ft. Cycas has an unbranched stem and bears the cluster of leaves as a crown at the top of it. So option A Cycas is incorrect.

Pinus are evergreen trees consisting of leaves in the shape of needles. The leaves are arranged in an acropetally manner. This gives them a spiral and conical appearance. They are found in areas having a lower temperature. They are taller plants. So option B is incorrect.

Gnetum is a genus of gymnosperms. It belongs to the family Gnetaceae and order Gnetales. They are tropical evergreen trees, shrubs and considered as a threatened species. They possess vessel elements in the xylem. So option D Gnetum is incorrect.

Hence, the correct answer is option (C).

Note: Gymnosperms are a group of plants that do not produce flowers. Seeds are not formed inside a fruit. They are found in colder regions where snowfall occurs. They develop needle-like leaves. They are perennial gymnosperms, almost woody, and forming trees or bushes. They are not differentiated into an ovary, style, and stigma.