Final answer:
Whisk fern gametangia lack vascular tissue and rely on rhizoids with the help of mycorrhizal fungi for nutrient absorption.
Step-by-step explanation:
Whisk fern gametangia lack vascular tissue, and they absorb nutrients via one-celled, root-like rhizoids aided by mycorrhizal fungi. These root-like structures are not true roots but serve to anchor the gametophyte and absorb nutrients, albeit not as effectively as true roots.
Unlike vascular plants that have extensive root systems to mine the soil for nutrients, whisk ferns have evolved a symbiotic relationship with mycorrhizal fungi to assist in nutrient uptake. The fungi extend the reach of the gametophyte into the soil, effectively increasing the surface area for nutrient absorption. The relationship between plants and mycorrhizal fungi is common across many plant species, providing a beneficial exchange of nutrients between the two organisms and playing a crucial role in the health of an ecosystem.
Whisk fern gametangia lack leaves, and absorb nutrients via one-celled, root-like rhizoids aided by mycorrhizal fungi. Whisk ferns are a class of ferns called Psilotopsida, which have lost both roots and leaves through evolution. Instead, photosynthesis takes place in their green stems, and they absorb nutrients through rhizoids that are assisted by mycorrhizal fungi.