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Big Bend National Park in Texas is mostly Chihuahuan desert, where rainfall averages about 25 centimeters per year. Yet, it is not uncommon when hiking in this extremely arid zone to encounter mosses and ferns. One such plant is called "flower of stone." It is not a flowering plant, nor does it produce seeds. Under arid conditions, its leaflike structures curl up. However, when it rains, it unfurls its leaves, which form a bright green rosette on the desert floor. Consequently, it is sometimes called the "resurrection plant." At first glance, it could be a fern, a true moss, or a spike moss.
Which of the following features is most important for true mosses and ferns to reproduce in the desert?

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Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The question asks which reproductive feature is important for true mosses and ferns to reproduce in the desert. Option A is incorrect because it refers to a habitat preference rather than a reproductive feature. Option B is partially correct, as low-growing sporophytes may be a helpful adaptation for desert plants. However, it is not a reproductive feature. Option D is incorrect because lignified vascular tissues are not specifically related to reproduction. Option C is the best answer, as it refers to two different methods for producing spores (homosporous) or having gametophytes grow close together to increase the likelihood of fertilization. These are traits that could help true mosses and ferns to successfully reproduce in the challenging desert environment. The presence of mosses and ferns mentioned in the passage also supports the idea that they are able to reproduce in such a harsh environment.

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