The Question is from neet-botany plant-kingdom , and it was created by the author NISHANTH

Question

Explain the role of the annulus in fern sporangia, contrasting its function with the role of elaters in liverworts.

NISHANTH · Accepted Answer

## CORE INFORMATION
✓ **Answer**: C
## CONCEPT FRAMEWORK
 **Primary Concept**: Spore dispersal mechanisms in plants
 **Related Topics**: Plant reproduction, sporangia structure, hygroscopic movement
 **Prerequisites**: Basic understanding of plant life cycles and spore dispersal.
## SOLUTION PATHWAY
**Given Information**:
  The question asks to compare the roles of the annulus in fern sporangia and elaters in liverwort sporangia in spore dispersal.
  Options describe different functions of these structures.
**Method & Steps**:
 1. Analyze the function of the annulus in fern sporangia.
  Reasoning: The annulus is a ring of specialized cells in fern sporangia.  It plays a crucial role in spore dispersal.  
  Formula/Rule: N/A
 2. Analyze the function of elaters in liverwort sporangia.
  Working: Elaters are hygroscopic structures within liverwort sporangia. They respond to changes in humidity, facilitating spore dispersal.
  Key Point: Hygroscopic means the ability to absorb moisture from the air and change shape accordingly.
 3. Compare and contrast the functions.
  Result: The annulus in ferns uses a spring-like mechanism for spore dispersal, while elaters in liverworts use hygroscopic movement driven by humidity changes for spore dispersal.
  Verification: Option C accurately reflects the contrasting mechanisms of spore dispersal by the annulus and elaters.
 ## OPTION ANALYSIS
A :x:  Incorrect.  Neither structure is primarily involved in nutrient absorption.
B :x: Incorrect. The annulus's main role is spore dispersal, not protection; elaters don't directly facilitate fertilization.
C ✓: Correct. This option accurately describes the contrasting roles of the annulus and elaters in spore dispersal.
D :x: Incorrect.  Neither structure is involved in anchoring the plant.
 ## LEARNING AIDS
 **Common Mistakes**:
  1.Confusing the functions of the annulus and elaters: Understanding the difference between a spring-like mechanism and hygroscopic movement is key.
  2.Overlooking the contrasting mechanisms: Focusing only on similarities between the structures can lead to incorrect answers.
 **Quick Tips**:
  1.Remember that ferns use a mechanical (spring-like) mechanism for spore dispersal, while liverworts rely on a humidity-driven mechanism.
  2.Associate 'annulus' with 'spring' and 'elaters' with 'hygroscopic' for easier recall.

NISHANTH · Answer

Both annulus and elaters aid in nutrient absorption.

NISHANTH · Answer

The annulus protects the developing spores, while elaters facilitate fertilization.

NISHANTH · Answer

The correct Option is "The annulus aids in spore dispersal in ferns by a spring-like mechanism, while elaters in liverworts are hygroscopic and facilitate spore dispersal by changing shape with humidity."

NISHANTH · Answer

Both annulus and elaters are involved in anchoring the plant to the substrate.

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