Question

While on an expedition to south america, you discover a new plant species. although you are certain it is a gymnosperm, you are interested in determining its phylum. the identification of what attributes would cause you to classify this new species to the phylum coniferophyta over other gymnosperm phyla?

Answer 1

To classify the new plant species to the phylum Coniferophyta, look for specific attributes such as needle-like leaves, waxy cuticle, and adaptations to cold and dry weather.

Step-by-step explanation:

In order to classify a new plant species to the phylum Coniferophyta over other gymnosperm phyla, you would look for specific attributes of conifers. Conifers are characterized by their tall trees that bear scale-like or needle-like leaves, which help reduce water loss. They also have a waxy cuticle and a thin shape of the needles, both of which limit water evaporation. Another characteristic of conifers is their predominance at high altitudes and in cold climates due to their adaptations to cold and dry weather.

Answer 2

The two attributes that you need to classify the new species to coniferophyta over other phyta are needle-like or scalelike leaves with a waxy cuticle and absence of seasonal leaf shedding because these two qualities are only found in coniferophyta.