The term bryophyta is used as a collective name to represent a group of plants that includes the mosses (musci), hornworts and liverworts (Hepaticae) growing predominantly in amphibious environment.
Pteridophyta claim a special position as the first land plants. They are also called vascular cryptogams as they possess xylem and phloem. Pteridophytes are nick named as ‘botanical snakes’ as they evolved after bryophytes (botanical amphibians).
Resemblances Between Bryophytes and Pteridophytes
1. Terrestrial habit
2. Development of embryo after gametic union
3. Development of embryo within the archegonium protected by multicellular maternal tissue.
4. Similar type of life cycle characterised by heterologous alternation of generations
5. Presence of cuticle
6. Presence of stomata except the liverworts
7. Multicellular sex organs with a jacket of sterile cells
8. Presence of unique type of female sex organ, the archegonium with are remarkable structure.
9. Multicellular sporangia
10. Completely absence of mitospores.
11.Sexual reproduction- Oogamous
12. Flagellated male gametes
13. Presence of water essential for fertilization
