The early evolution of land plants occurred in moist lowland habitats, then about 400 million years ago they moved to the interiors of continents. Which of the following characteristics likely contributed to the colonization of continental regions further from standing water?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Vascular tissue, specifically xylem, allowed for the bulk flow of water and nutrients throughout the plant, making it possible for plants to survive further from standing water. The absorption of water through photosynthetic tissue (A) and the ability to perform photosynthesis (B) are important for plant survival but do not necessarily contribute to colonization of continental regions further from standing water. Cell-cell adhesion (D) may provide structural support but does not contribute to water transport.

The Early Evolution of Land Plants Occurred in Moist Lowland