Plant Kingdom – Classification, Features & Importance
What is the Plant Kingdom?
The Plant Kingdom (Plantae) includes all multicellular, eukaryotic, and autotrophic organisms. They have cell walls made of cellulose and contain chlorophyll for photosynthesis.
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Classification of Plant Kingdom
According to R.H. Whittaker’s Five Kingdom Classification, plants belong to Kingdom Plantae. They are further classified into:
1. Algae – Simple, thalloid, autotrophic plants, mostly aquatic.
Example: Chlamydomonas, Spirogyra
2. Bryophytes – Non-vascular plants, also known as amphibians of the plant kingdom.
Example: Moss (Funaria), Liverwort (Riccia)
3. Pteridophytes – First vascular plants, having xylem and phloem.
Example: Ferns (Marsilea, Selaginella)
4. Gymnosperms – Naked seed plants, mostly evergreen.
Example: Cycas, Pinus
5. Angiosperms – Flowering plants with seeds enclosed inside fruits.
Example: Mango, Sunflower
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Importance of Plant Kingdom
🌱 Oxygen Production – Plants release oxygen during photosynthesis.
🌱 Food Source – They provide carbohydrates, proteins, fats, fruits, and vegetables.
🌱 Medicinal Value – Many plants are used in Ayurveda, Unani, and modern medicine.
🌱 Ecological Balance – Plants maintain carbon dioxide and oxygen levels in the atmosphere.
🌱 Industrial Uses – Timber, paper, rubber, oils, and fibers come from plants.
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Key Points for Students
Algae → Aquatic, photosynthetic
Bryophytes → Amphibians of plant kingdom
Pteridophytes → First vascular plants
Gymnosperms → Naked seeds
Angiosperms → Flowering plants with fruits
👉 Remember this sequence: ABPGA (Algae → Bryophytes → Pteridophytes → Gymnosperms → Angiosperms)
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Conclusion
The Plant Kingdom forms the backbone of life on Earth. From providing food and oxygen to maintaining ecological balance, plants are truly the life-sustainers of our planet.
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