Md.

Aminul Islam Chowdhury Lecturer (Biology)

M. Phil. (Researcher), M. Sc. (Thesis), B. Sc. (Hons.) Cantonment English School & College
Dept. of Botany, University of Chittagong. Hello: 01912-85 33 95 ; 01789-64 53 12 .

CHAPTER SEVEN [Revised: 2018] 1

Gymnosperms and Angiosperms Subject code: 1 7 8
[ Phanerogams (Flowering plants) ]

Major Topics :

A. Gymnosperms  Open seeded non-fruiting plants.

B. Angiosperms  Close seeded fruit forming plants.

Basic differences between Gymnosperms and Angiosperms are –

Gymnosperms
1) Gymnosperms have no ‘True flower’.
Instead of, ‘Cone or Strobilus’ is formed.
2) Due to absencence of ovary, no fruit is formed.
3) Since no fruit is developed, seed remains naked or open.
Angiosperms
1) Angiosperms have ‘True flower’ including thalamus, calyx,
corolla, androecium & gynoecium.
2) Ovary is present, that’s why fruit is formed.
3) Seed is enclosed by fruit i.e. close seeded.

Major Topic - A : GYMNOSPERMS

Topic - 1  Position of Gymnosperms in Living world, Introduction, Characteristics / Salient features, Definition.

Topic - 2  Detail study on Genus: Cycas, under the Division / Phylum : Cycadophyta –
i) Systematic position / Classification, Habit and Habitat, Geographical distribution
ii) Vegetative structure OR, Structure of sporophyte (2n)
iii) Reproduction (in brief)
iv) Identifying characters
v) Economic importance.

Major Topic - B : ANGIOSPERMS

Topic - 3  Position of Angiosperms in Living world, Introduction, Characteristics / Salient features.

Topic - 4  Detail study on Monocotyledonous Plant  Family : Poaceae (Gramineae, Grass family) –
i) Introduction, Systematic position / Classification
ii) General characters AND Identifying characters
iii) Some common plants / important plants OR Economic importance.

Topic - 5  Detail study on Dicotyledonous Plant  Family : Malvaceae –

i) Introduction, Systematic position / Classification
ii) General characters AND Identifying characters
iii) Some common plants / important plants OR Economic importance.

Topic - 6  Practical : ‘Family : Malvaceae’ identification (Specimen: Hibiscus rosa-sinensis  China Rose).


 Md. Aminul Islam Chowdhury Lecturer (Biology)
M. Phil. (Researcher), M. Sc. (Thesis), B. Sc. (Hons.) Cantonment English School & College
2
Dept. of Botany, University of Chittagong. Hello: 01912-85 33
Aminul Sir
95 ; 01789-64 53 12 .
Lecturer (Biology), CESC.
Major Topic - A : GYMNOSPERMS 01789 -64 53 12 .
[ Gk. gymnos = naked / open & spermos = seed ]

Topic - 1  Position of Gymnosperms in Living world ;

Introduction ;
Characteristics / Salient features ;
Definition .

Position of Gymnosperms in Living world :

According to Bentham & Hooker (1862-83) : According to Dr. Lynn Margulis (1974) :
Plant Kingdom Living World
Sub-kingdom-2: Phanerogamia Super Kingdom-2: Eukaryota
Kingdom-4: Plantae (It has 9 phyla under 2 grades)
Division-1: Gymnosperms
Grade-2: Tracheophyta (It has 8 phyla)
Phylum-5: Cycadophyta (Cycas – Living fossil)
Class: Cycadopsida
Order: Cycadales [Usually called - Cycad; 9 genus]
Family: Cycadaceae
Genus: Cycas
Phylum-6: Ginkgophyta (Ginkgo biloba – Living fossil)
Phylum-7: Coniferophyta (Sequoia gigantea)
Phylum-8: Gnetophyta (Gnetum) [Most advanced]

Introduction :
✓ Greek ‘gymnos’ means - naked / open and ‘sperma’ means - seed. The father of Botany Theophrastus for the first time
used the word ‘Gymnosperm’ in his book “Enquiry into Plants”.
✓ At present, they are not considered as ‘Flowering plants’, because their ‘Sporophyll’ is not resembled with flower.
✓ So far, 721 species of Gymnosperms under 83 genera have been discovered in the world. Maximum of them are tree, some
are shrub and woody climber.
✓ In Bangladesh, though there are almost 4,000 species of Angiosperms, only 5 (five) species of Gymnosperms are grown in
naturally. They are - 1) Cycas pectinata
2) Podocarpus neriifolius
3) Gnetum latifolium
4) G. montenum
5) G. oblongum

✓ Besides, Cycas circinalis, C. revoluta, Pinus, Thuja, Araucaria etc. exotic Gymnosperms are planted for ornamentation.

✓ According to Lynn Margulis [1938 – 2011], all living Gymnosperms are placed in the following 4 phyla / divisions -
Cycadophyta, Ginkgophyta, Coniferophyta & Gnetophyta.

✓ Cycadophyta: At present, this phylum or division consists of only 100 species. Sperm / male gamete of the plants have
flagella.
[ P.T.O. ]
 Md. Aminul Islam Chowdhury Lecturer (Biology)
M. Phil. (Researcher), M. Sc. (Thesis), B. Sc. (Hons.) Cantonment English School & College
3
Dept. of Botany, University of Chittagong. Hello: 01912-85 33 95 ; 01789-64 53 12 .
✓ Ginkgophyta: It consists of 1 (one) species only - Ginkgo biloba, a living fossil. Rest of the species under this division is
extinct. Sperm / male gamete of the plant has also flagella.

✓ Coniferophyta: This phylum or division consists of around 550 species. The tallest plant of the world Sequoia
sempervirens (S. gigantea  Redwood tree) is a conifer plant. The oldest tree of the world (5,000 years old) is - Bristle
Cone Pine (Pinus longaeva) is also a conifer, grow in Nevada & California of America. ‘Conifer forest of Siberia’ is not only
the biggest conifer forest, but also the largest ‘Biome’ of the world.
[ Meaning of Conifer: A tree which bears cones and needle-like or scale-like leaves that are typically evergreen. Conifers are of
major importance as the source of softwood and also supply resin. ]

✓ Gnetophyta: It consists of around 70 species. Gnetophyta is considered the closest group to Angiosperms because of the
following features –
1) Vessel or Trachea of xylem tissue in the stem.
2) Leaf of Gnetum is as like as Angiospermic plants.
3) Welwitschea, an endemic plant of the desert of Namibia, its male cone or strobilus is like flower.
An adult Welwitschia consists of two leaves only.
4) Like Angiosperms, sperm / male gamete of Gnetophyta plants has no flagella.
5) In Ephedra, double fertilization is occurred, though this feature is absent in Gymnosperms.

Characteristics / Salient features :

1) Gymnosperms are sporophyte, perennial, evergreen plants group.
2) No vessel in xylem tissue (Exception: Gnetum sp.) and no companion cell in phloem tissue.
3) ‘Leaf scar’ is found on the stem. Leaf scar is a special symbol of shedded leaf (persistent leaf base) on the surface of
stem.
4) They are Heterosporous i.e. produce both Microspore & Megaspore.
5) Sporophylls condense together and form - ‘Cone’ or, ‘Strobilus’.
6) In Mega-sporophyll, it has no style, stigma & ovary. Therefore, microspore or, pollen grain directly falls upon the micropyle
of orthotropous ovule during pollination.
7) Double fertilization does not occur (Exception: Ephedra sp.). That’s why, endosperm is haploid (n) and it is produced
before fertilization.
8) Due to absence of ovary, they have no fruit.

Definition :
The seed forming plants group which have no true flower, no ovary & no fruit, and due to this- seed remains open, having
Cone or, Strobilus, are called - Gymnosperms. All the members of Gymnosperms are terrestrial and represent xerophytic
characters. For example - Cycas, Pinus, Thuja, Gnetum etc.

              Aminul Sir
Lecturer (Biology), CESC.
01912 -85 33 95 .
 Md. Aminul Islam Chowdhury Lecturer (Biology)
M. Phil. (Researcher), M. Sc. (Thesis), B. Sc. (Hons.) Cantonment English School & College
4 Dept. of Botany, University of Chittagong. Hello: 01912-85 33 95 ; 01789-64 53 12 .
Topic - 2  Detail study on Genus: Cycas, under the Division / Phylum : Cycadophyta –
i) Systematic position / Classification, Habit and Habitat, Geographical distribution
ii) Vegetative structure OR, Structure of sporophyte (2n)
iii) Reproduction (in brief)
iv) Identifying characters Aminul Sir
Lecturer (Biology), CESC.
v) Economic importance . 01789 -64 53 12 .

i) Systematic position / Classification :

According to Dr. Lynn Margulis (1974) :
Living World
Super Kingdom - 2 : Eukaryota
Kingdom - 4 : Plantae (It has 9 phyla under 2 grades)
Grade - 2 : Tracheophyta (It has 8 phyla)
Phylum - 5 : Cycadophyta (Cycas - Living fossil)
Class : Cycadopsida
Order : Cycadales [Usually called - Cycad; 9 genus]
Family : Cycadaceae
Genus : Cycas
Species : C. pectinata, C. circinalis, C. revoluta

i) Habit and Habitat :

✓ Perennial tree like coconut plant.
✓ Generally grows on dry hilly areas.
Fig.: Vegetative structure of Cycas
i) Geographical distribution :
✓ Cycas are distributed tropical and subtropical areas of the world. They grow in Australia, China, Japan, India & Bangladesh.
✓ In Bangladesh, Cycas pectinata grows well naturally in the hilly areas of Chittagong and Gajni forest of Sherpur.
✓ Besides, C. circinalis and C. revoluta are grown on garden as ornamental plants.

ii) Vegetative structure OR, Structure of sporophyte (2n) :

Cycas is a sporophytic plant. Sporophyte is divided into root, stem and leaves.

Root: At primary stage, Cycas has tap root (primary root), but it is temporary because it is degenerated due to the
development of adventitious root (secondary root). Adventitious root divides dichotomously into numerous small roots. Just above
the soil surface, these dichotomously branched roots get infected by a type of bacterium. Whenever this bacterium grows in roots,
again they are infected by Nostoc, Anabaena named Cyanobacteria. This causes structural deformed shape of roots and looks like
sea coral. Because of this appearance, it is called - Coralloid root or Root tubercle. Since, Nostoc & Anabaena are lying in the mid
cortex of coralloid root, that’s why this part of root is called - Algal layer.

Stem: Stem is erect, usually unbranched and cylindrical. Due to presence of persistent leaf base, stem surface is rough.
The height of the plant may be up to 8 to 14 feet. Some species like - Cycas media is taller than the range. Generally unbranched,
but whenever apex is broken down, branch is developed. At the top of stem, bunch of leaves forming a crown.

Leaves: Leaf of Cycas is compound. Bunch of leaves are spirally arranged at the top of the stem. Young leaves remain
coiled, called - circinate vernation, is a characteristic of fern. Leaves are dimorphic i.e. morphologically two types - Foliage leaves
(green) and Scale leaves (brown). Scales leaves cover the bud of foliage leaves. The leaf of Cycas is somewhat similar to Palm
plant and the leaf of Fern and because of this, Cycas is called - Palm fern. Pairs of leaflet or pinna arise from the rachis. Each
leaflet or pinna has a midrib, but vein & veinlet is not clear. The number of pinna are varying species to species.
 Md. Aminul Islam Chowdhury Lecturer (Biology)
M. Phil. (Researcher), M. Sc. (Thesis), B. Sc. (Hons.) Cantonment English School & College
5
Dept. of Botany, University of Chittagong. Hello: 01912-85 33 95 ; 01789-64 53 12 .
iii) Reproduction (in brief) :
Aminul Sir
Usually, Cycas reproduces in 2 (two) ways – 1) Asexual reproduction & 2) Sexual reproduction. Lecturer (Biology), CESC.
01912 -85 33 95 .

Asexual (Vegetative) reproduction:

✓ Except the union of sperm (n) and ovum (n), all other types of reproduction processes are called - Asexual reproduction.
✓ One type of bud ‘Bulbil’ is produced on the stem of Cycas plant. If this bud ‘Bulbil’ is sown in suitable place then it will grow
to a new Cycas plant. Preparation of seedlings from bud ‘Bulbil’ is the easy & better for nursery.
✓ Seedlings are produced from the base of some Cycas species during March–April month. When these seedlings are
planted, new Cycas tree establishes.
✓ Since, new tree is produced by using the plant parts, therefore, the above mentioned reproduction processes are also called
- Vegetative reproduction.

Sexual reproduction: Cycas is strictly dioecious i.e. male & female plants are separate and heterosporous (i.e. produce both
Microspore & Megaspore).

Meiosis
Strobilus/Cone  Microsporophyll  Sorus (pl. Sori)  Microsporangium (pl. Sporangia)  Microspore Mother Cell (2n) 

4 Microspores / Pollen grains (n)  Sperm / Male gamete (n).

Strobilus OR Cone: Plenty of densely condensed Microsporophylls are produced at the tip of the male Cycas plant which are
formed a ‘Cone’ shaped structure, known as - Strobilus. The extended narrow head of the Microsporophyll, is called - Apophysis.
Many Micro-sporangia are produced from the dorsal surface of a Microsporophyll. 2-5 Micro-sporangia present in a group, called
Sorus (pl. Sori). Microspore Mother Cells (2n) are formed in the Micro-sporangium. Each Microspore Mother Cell (2n) undergoes
meiosis cell division and gives rise to 4 haploid Microspores or Pollen grains (n). Each Pollen grain has two wings.
Haploid Microspore or Pollen grain (n) is the first cell of male gametophyte. After germination of Pollen grain (n) at micropyle
region, two motile top shaped ‘Sperms / Male gametes’ are formed from generative cell in the pollen tube. Sperm / Male gamete is
multi-flagellated and is the biggest of all plants of the Plant Kingdom.

Meiosis
Megasporophyll  Ovule  Megaspore Mother Cell (2n)  4 Megaspores (n)  3 degenerate & only 1 Megaspore remains

active  Archegonium  Ovum / Egg / Oosphere / Female gamete (n).

Megasporophyll: Megasporophylls produce freely (i.e. do not form Strobilus) at the apex of the female Cycas plant. At the
margins of each Megasporophyll, 2-3 pairs large & red coloured ovules are formed. Among all cells inside the ovule, only one cell
near micropyle, turns into Megaspore Mother Cells (2n). Each Megaspore Mother Cell (2n) undergoes meiosis cell division and
gives rise to 4 haploid Megaspores (n). Among these 4 megaspores, 3 degenerate and only 1 remains active. This active
Megaspore (n) turns into an Archegonium where ‘Ovum / Egg / Oosphere / Female gamete (n)’ is formed.

Fertilization: Cycas is a wind pollinated plant. Microspore or Pollen grain (n) is transferred by air and fall upon the micropyle of
ovule. After germination of Pollen grain at micropyle, two motile top shaped ‘Sperms / Male gametes (n)’ are formed from
generative cell in the pollen tube. One of the two male gametes discharged from the pollen tube, unites and fertilizes the egg /
ovum, forms ‘Zygote (2n)’. Later, this fertilized ovule turns into a seed. This seed germinates to form a new Cycas plant.
 Md. Aminul Islam Chowdhury Lecturer (Biology)
M. Phil.
6 (Researcher), M. Sc. (Thesis), B. Sc. (Hons.) Cantonment English School & College
Dept. of Botany, University of Chittagong. Hello: 01912-85 33Aminul Sir 53 12 .
95 ; 01789-64
Lecturer (Biology), CESC.
iv) Identifying characters of Cycas : 01789 -64 53 12 .

1) Main body of Cycas is sporophyte and divided into root, stem & leaves; looks like Palm / Coconut tree.
2) Secondary adventitious ‘Coralloid root or Root tubercle’ is present.
3) Stem is erect, usually unbranched and having rough surface due to presence of persistent leaf base.
4) Leaf is large and compound; bunch of leaves are spirally arranged at the top of the stem.
5) Young leaves remain coiled, called - circinate vernation, is a characteristic of fern.
6) Transfusion tissue is found in leaf.
[ Transfusion tissue is universal in the leaf of Gymnosperms. It is composed of three kinds of cell - Tracheid, parenchyma and
albuminous cell (companion cell). ]

7) Microsporophylls condense together form ‘Strobilus (cone)’ but Megasporophylls do not form true strobilus.
8) Heterosporous i.e. produce both Microspore & Megaspore for sexual reproduction. Pollination is done by air.
9) Sperm of Cycas looks like top, motile, multiflagellate and is the largest sperm in the plant kingdom.

v) Economic importance of Cycas :

1) Cycas is planted in almost all gardens as a decorative plant.
2) Leaves are used to decorate home and gate on various occasions. Young leaves of Cycas are also used to make
beautiful mat & flower basket.
3) Arrowroot (barley) is produced from the seeds & swollen stem of Cycas circinalis.
4) Seeds of Cycas revoluta are used as food.
5) Young leaves of Cycas pectinata can be eaten as vegetable.
6) Some seeds are used to produce ‘sago dana’ and pith of stem to produce alcohol.
7) Megasporophyll of Cycas looks like snake hood. These are sold in the name of 'Sarpomoni', claiming as a universal
medicine & medicine of snake bite. Actually, it has no drug value.

Similarities between Cycas and Fern :

1) Both are sporophytic (2n); body is divided into root, stem and leaf.
2) Leaf is pinnately compound.
3) Young leaf remains coiled or twisted in growing condition, called ‘Circinate vernation’.
4) Sperms are multi-flagellated.
5) Heteromorphic alternation of generation is seen in the life cycle in case of both of them.

Ques.: Why is Cycas called the ‘Living fossil’?

Ans.: The characteristics are found in the fossil of an extinct plant are mostly similar to the living plants of the same type, is
known as - ‘Living fossil’. The living fossils are those plants which bear the characteristics of an extinct plant of ancient period.

Among the Gymnosperms, Cycas is under the Order: Cycadales. The members of this order are usually called - Cycad. Many
of the plants of this order have already been extinct. Still around 100 species under 9 genera (including Cycas) in this order are
alive. The Cycas which has survived till present day, extremely ancient and retained primitive features of fossil both in their
morphology & life cycle. For this reason, members of the Order: Cycadales or Cycad is called ‘Living fossil’.


 Md. Aminul Islam Chowdhury Lecturer (Biology)
M. Phil. (Researcher), M. Sc. (Thesis), B. Sc. (Hons.) Cantonment English School & College7
Dept. of Botany, University of Chittagong. Hello: 01912-85 33 95 ; 01789-64 53 12 .
Major Topic - B : ANGIOSPERMS
[ Gk. angeion = vessel / container & spermos = seed ]

Topic - 3  Position of Angiosperms in Living world ;

Aminul Sir
Introduction ; Lecturer (Biology), CESC.
Characteristics / Salient features . 01912 -85 33 95 .

Position of Angiosperms in Living world :

According to Bentham & Hooker (1862-83) : According to Dr. Lynn Margulis (1974) :
Plant Kingdom Living World
Sub-kingdom-2: Phanerogamia Super Kingdom-2: Eukaryota
Division-2: Angiosperms Kingdom-4: Plantae (It has 9 phyla under 2 grades)
Class-1: Monocotyledons Grade-2: Tracheophyta (It has 8 phyla)
Class-2: Dicotyledons Phylum-9: Angiospermophyta

Introduction :
The word 'Angiosperm' is originated from two Greek words 'angeion' means ‘Vessel or Container’ & ‘spermos’ means ‘Seed’.
Plants in which seed lies in the container (i.e. fruits), called - Angiosperms. Here, ‘Fruit’ is the vessel / container and fruit is
produced from the ovary & seed is produced from the ovule of flower. So, the other name of Angiosperms is ‘Flowering plants’.

According to many botanists, Angiosperms originated in the tropical areas, mainly South-East Asia. Then it spreaded all over the
world. So far, more than 2.5 lacs angiosperm plant species have been identified from the world and from Bangladesh it is
approximately 4,000.

The smallest Angiospermic plant species in Bangladesh is Wolffia arrhiza. Boilam, Gorjon, Telshur etc. are main high trees of
Bangladesh. Cane may be very long if allowed to grow. Eucalyptus may be 500 feet high.

Characteristics / Salient features :

1) Plant body is sporophyte / diploid (2n); ‘Flower’ forming vascular plants group.
2) Xylem tissue has vessel and phloem tissue has companion cell.
3) Pollen grains have no wings and fall on stigma during pollination. Sperms / male gametes have no flagella i.e. non-motile.
4) Carpel is mainly divided into 3 parts - Stigma, Style & ovary. No archegonium is produced.
5) Double fertilization takes place and formation of Endosperm occurs after fertilization. That’s why, Endosperm is triploid (3n).
6) After fertilization, ovary transformed into fruit and ovule into seed inside the ovary. So, seed remains inside the fruit.
7) One or two cotyledons remains in the seed.



Topic - 4  Detail study on Monocotyledonous Plant  Family : Poaceae (Gramineae, Grass family)-
i) Introduction, Systematic position / Classification
ii) General characters AND Identifying characters

iii) Some common plants / important plants OR Economic importance .

[ P.T.O. ]
 Md. Aminul Islam Chowdhury Lecturer (Biology)
M. Phil. (Researcher), M. Sc. (Thesis), B. Sc. (Hons.) Cantonment English School & College
8
Dept. of Botany, University of Chittagong. Hello: 01912-85 33 95 ; 01789-64 53 12 .
i) Introduction :
Definition: The Angiospermic plants having only one cotyledon in their seed, called - Monocotyledonous plants. e.g. Paddy,
Sugarcane, Bamboo etc.

Identifying Characters of Monocot: Aminul Sir

1) One cotyledon only in the seed. Lecturer (Biology), CESC.
01789 -64 53 12 .
2) The position of cotyledons in the seed is apical and plumule is lateral.
3) Fibrous or adventitious root system.
4) Usually, Parallel venation is seen in leaf.
5) Flower is tri-merous, i.e. in each whorl of the flower, specially the number of calyx & corolla are 3 or its multiples (e.g. 6, 9,
12 etc.).
6) Cambium is absent in between xylem & phloem. So, there is no secondary growth.

Dr. Arthur Cronquist (1981) divided the Angiosperms into 380 families. Among them, 65 families belong to class: Liliopsida
(Monocot). In this class, the first & primitive family is Butomaceae and the last i.e. 65th & advanced family is Orchidaceae. The
rank of family: Poaceae is 34th.

POACEAE is known as the family of ‘Grasses’. All cereal yielding plants including our staple food Paddy/Rice belong to this family.
There are 285 species under 113 genera of this family have been identified from Bangladesh. The name ‘Poaceae’ has been made
from the TYPE GENUS: Poa.

i) Systematic position / Classification of Family: Poaceae (Gramineae)  Grass family

According to Dr. Arthur Cronquist (1981) –
Division : Magnoliophyta
Class : Liliopsida
Sub-class : Commelinidae
Order : Cyperales
Family : Poaceae (Gramineae).

ii) General characters of Family: Poaceae (Gramineae)  Grass family

Habit : Annual or Perennial herb, some are tree type (e.g. Bamboo: Bambusa bambos).

Root : Fibrous / Adventitious root system.

Stem : Cylindrical, round in transverse section; most cases stem is ‘Culm / Fistular’
i.e. solid at the nodes and hollow in the internode or between the nodes;
in some cases internodes are solid (e.g. Sugarcane: Saccharum officinarum, Maize: Zea mays).

Leaves : Simple, Alternate, 2-ranked, Linear or Lanceolate, Parallel venation (Reticulate in Smilax);
each leaf consists of three parts – LEAF-SHEATH which is usually split up, LEAF BLADE and LIGULE
(an outgrowth arising at the junction of leaf-sheath and leaf blade, Echinochloa is without ligule).
[ P.T.O. ]
 Md. Aminul Islam Chowdhury Lecturer (Biology)
M. Phil. (Researcher), M. Sc. (Thesis), B. Sc. (Hons.) Cantonment English School & College
9
Dept. of Botany, University of Chittagong. Hello: 01912-85 33 95 ; 01789-64 53 12 .
Inflorescence : Spikelet (Racemose / Indefinite). Each spikelet can bear one or more than one flower.
A single flower bearing spikelet has 2 empty ‘Glumes’ at the base. Above on the empty glumes, 2 more glumes
are placed, called ‘Flowering glumes’. Lower, larger flowering glume is known as ‘Lemma (Bract)’ and the
upper, comparatively smaller flowering glume is known as ‘Palea (Bracteole)’.
Palea contains the flower which is made by - 2 perianth (called ‘Lodicule’), androecium and gynoecium.
Racemoce: An indeterminate inflorescence where the bottom flowers bloom first, maturing from bottom to upward.

Flower : The flower of the grass family is called ‘Floret’. Floret may unisexual or bisexual, generally bisexual;
Incomplete;
Zygomorphic i.e. bi-laterally symmetrical so that only one plane will produce a mirror image on either side;
Hypogynous (G) i.e. Ovary - Superior.

Perianth : When Calyx and Corolla cannot be distinguished i.e. they mixed together and form a single structure, called –
‘Perianth’. A basic unit of perianth is called ‘Tepal’. In Poaceae family, the perianth is known as ‘LODICULE’.
Lodicule = 2, very small, like a scale, placed within Palea (Bracteole).

Androecium : Stamens generally 3 in number, seldom 6 in Paddy & Bamboo and arranged in 2 whorls;
Filament long; Anther - bilocular i.e. two chambered (Locule = chamber, compartment), versatile;
wind pollinated.

Gynoecium : Stigma = 2 in number, lateral and feathery; Style = 1; Carpel = 1 (solitary), single chambered contains one
anatropous / inverted ovule in the carpel; Ovule - Basal and straight; Ovary - Superior.

Placentation : Basal placentation i.e. the placenta develops at the base of the ovary. Generally, it occurs in a unilocular ovary.

Fruit : Caryopsis i.e. one seeded dry indehiscent fruit derived from monocarpellary ovary.

Aminul Sir
Seed : Endospermic. Lecturer (Biology), CESC.
01912 -85 33 95 .

Floral Formula : Paddy (Oryza sativa) = Br. Brl. † ♀ P2 A3+3 G1 .

ii) Identifying characters of Family: Poaceae (Gramineae)  Grass family

1) Stem is Culm / Fistular.
2) Leaf consists of - Leaf sheath, Leaf blade and Ligule.
3) Inflorescence is spikelet.
4) Anther is versatile and Stigma is feathery.
5) Placentation is basal.
6) Fruit is caryopsis.
 Md. Aminul Islam Chowdhury Lecturer (Biology)
M. Phil. (Researcher), M. Sc. (Thesis), B. Sc. (Hons.) Cantonment English School & College
10
Dept. of Botany, University of Chittagong. Hello: 01912-85 33
Aminul Sir
95 ; 01789-64 53 12 .
Lecturer (Biology), CESC.
iii) Some common plants / important plants OR Economic importance : 01789 -64 53 12 .

1) Bamboo (Bambusa bambos) :

High tree-like primitive grass. Used in building house & making paper. In cottage industry, bamboo is used to make various
furniture & decorating materials. 28 species of Bamboo grow in Bangladesh. They have a great importance in our daily life.

2) Paddy (Oryza sativa) :

It is a cultivated plant. Main food of Bangladeshi people 'Rice' comes from Paddy. Chira, Muri, Cake, Payesh etc. food are
derived from Paddy or Rice. Straw is used as high quality cattle feed & fuel. Edible oil & poultry feed are prepared from ‘Rice dust
or Bran’.

3) Sugarcane (Saccharum officinarum) :

It is a cultivated plant. Molasses, Sugar, Fuel etc. are derived from Sugarcane. Alcohol & Vinegar are made from Molasses by
fermentation process. Coir of Sugarcane is used in production of Partex. Sugarcane is also used as high quality fuel.

4) Wheat (Triticum aestivum) :

Wheat is the main food of about 35% people of the world. It is cultivated for flour, coarse flour, suzie etc. Bread, parota, loaf,
biscuit etc. are prepared from Wheat. Straw of wheat is used as cattle feed & fuel.

5) Maize (Zea mays) :

Maize is the 3rd main food of human. It is cultivated. Popcorn, Cornflakes & various food are prepared from Maize. It is used
as poultry feed & fuel.

6) Barley (Hordeum vulgare) :

It is cultivated for barley flour. Barley grist is a delicious, easily digestible & healthy food. It is used industrially as a component
of Horlicks, Complan etc. food products.

7) Lemon grass (Cymbopogon citratus) :

Lemon flavoured grass. Used in aromatic oil & cosmetics. Also used in Chinese soup.

8) Phragmites (Phragmites karka) :

Grows in wetland i.e. swamp forest. It is used widely to prepare paper pulp.

9) Broom grass (Thysanolaena maxima) :

Grows in hilly areas or hill tracts. Used to make broom / mop.

10) Durba grass (Cynodon dactylon) :

Used in lawn and as animal food & medicinal plant. Used as a medicine to stop bleeding & wound healing.


 Md. Aminul Islam Chowdhury Lecturer (Biology)
M. Phil. (Researcher), M. Sc. (Thesis), B. Sc. (Hons.) Cantonment English School & College
11
Dept. of Botany, University of Chittagong. Hello: 01912-85 33 95 ; 01789-64 53 12 .
Topic - 5  Detail study on Dicotyledonous Plant  Family : Malvaceae – Aminul Sir
Lecturer (Biology), CESC.
i) Introduction, Systematic position / Classification
01912 -85 33 95 .
ii) General characters AND Identifying characters

iii) Some common plants / important plants OR Economic importance .

i) Introduction :
Dr. Arthur Cronquist (1981) divided the Angiosperms into 380 families. Among them, 315 families belong to class:
Magnoliopsida (Dicot). In this class, the first & primitive family is Winteraceae and the last i.e. 315th & advanced family is
Asteraceae.

Definition: The Angiospermic plants having two cotyledons in their seed, called - Dicotyledonous plants. e.g. Jackfruit, Mango,
Bean etc.

Identifying Characters of Dicot:

1) Two cotyledons in the seed.
2) The position of cotyledons in the seed is lateral and plumule is apical.
3) Tap root system.
4) Usually, Reticulate venation is seen in leaf.
5) Flower is tetra- or penta-merous, i.e. in each whorl of the flower, specially the number of calyx & corolla are 4, 5 or their
multiples (e.g. 8, 12 or 10, 15).
6) In stem, vascular bundles are radially arranged.
7) Cambium is present in between xylem & phloem. So, there is secondary growth.

Family: MALVACEAE (Type genus: Malva)

Distribution: Malvaceae is a large family. It consists of 1,000-1,500 species under 75 genus in the world. In Bangladesh, 42
species (approx.) under 14 genus of this family are growing. Among these, Hibiscus is the largest genus having 15 species.

i) Systematic position / Classification :

According to Dr. Arthur Cronquist (1981) –
Division : Magnoliophyta
Class : Magnoliopsida
Sub-class : Dillenidae
Order : Malvales
Family : Malvaceae.

ii) General characters :

Habit : Herbs, Shrubs and Trees; often with ‘Mucilage’ and ‘Stellate hair’ on young stem.
Mucilage : A sticky/lubricating substance or solution.
Stellate hair : Bunch of hairs formed a star-shaped structure on young stem.

[ P.T.O. ]
 Md. Aminul Islam Chowdhury Lecturer (Biology)
M. Phil. (Researcher), M. Sc. (Thesis), B. Sc. (Hons.) Cantonment English School & College
12
Dept. of Botany, University of Chittagong. Hello: 01912-85 33
Aminul Sir
95 ; 01789-64 53 12 .
Lecturer (Biology), CESC.
Root : Tap root system. 01789 -64 53 12 .

Stem : Mostly woody and branched.

Leaves : Simple, Alternate, Lobed, Reticulate venation, Petiolate (having a leaf stalk),
Stipulate (an outgrowth arising at the base of petiole).

Inflorescence : Solitary (Cymose).

Cymose: A determinate inflorescence where the top flower blooms first, maturing from top to downward.
Racemoce: An indeterminate inflorescence where the bottom flower blooms first, maturing from bottom to upward.

Flower : Solitary, large, Axillary or Apical, Complete, Regular (radially symmetrical)  Actinomorphic, Bi-sexual,
Hypogynous.

Epicalyx : 3 – 10 in number, Hibiscus rosa-sinensis (China Rose) = 5, free.

Calyx : Sepals = 5, united, Valvate aestivation.

Corolla : Petals = 5, free, Twisted aestivation, fused with staminal tube at the base.

Androecium : Stamens = numerous (∞), Monadelphous (i.e. having the stamens united in one group by the fusion of their
filaments and form a staminal tube), Epi-petalous (i.e. attached to the petals);
Anther - unilocular (Locule = chamber, compartment), reniform (i.e. Kidney shaped);
Pollen grains are large and spiny.

Gynoecium : Stigma = 5 in number (generally, equal to carpel); Style = 1;

Carpel = generally 5 – 10, Hibiscus rosa-sinensis (China Rose) = 5, united,
two anatropous / inverted ovules in each carpel, Ovary - Superior.

Placentation : Axile placentation.

Valvate Twisted
Fruit : Capsule (i.e. A dry dehiscent fruit derived from a superior ovary), aestivation aestivation

Berry (i.e. Fleshy simple fruit with succulent pericarp, e.g. Tomato, Grape etc.) or,
Schizocarp (i.e. A dry, indehiscent fruit which splits into separate one-seeded segments / carpels at maturity).

Floral Formula :  ♀ EK5 K(5) C5 A(∞) G(5) .

ii) Identifying characters :

1) Tender (i.e. green) parts of the plant with hair and mucilaginous.
2) Stipules are free and lateral.
3) Flowers are solitary and usually having epicalyx.
4) Stamens numerous, monadelphous, epi-petalous, staminal tube encloses the style of gynoecium.
5) Anther reniform in shape & unilocular; pollen grains are large & spiny (i.e. ornamented exine).
6) Hypogynous flower; Superior ovary; Axile placentation.


 Md. Aminul Islam Chowdhury Lecturer (Biology)
M. Phil. (Researcher), M. Sc. (Thesis), B. Sc. (Hons.) Cantonment English School & College
13
Dept. of Botany, University of Chittagong. Hello: 01912-85 33 95 ; 01789-64 53 12 .
iii) Some common plants / important plants OR Economic importance : Aminul Sir
Lecturer (Biology), CESC.
01789 -64 53 12 .
1) China Rose (Hibiscus rosa-sinensis) :
Economic importance: It has great economic importance. It is planted in the garden for flower. Application of it on the
head keeps the head cool and hair black & long. China Rose is a component of Jobakusum oil. Intake of bud of China Rose in the
morning for few days helps to overcome weakness. China Rose flower is also a good medicine in piles.

2) Ladies finger (Abelmoschus esculentus) :

Economic importance: It is mainly used as vegetable. It is also used to make soup. It has herbal importance. Intake of
juice of young Ladies finger helps to overcome weakness. It is also helpful in diabetes. Good fibres are derived from Ladies finger.

3) Levant Cotton (Gossypium herbaceum) :

Economic importance: Cotton is derived from its seed coat (i.e. surface fibre). Levant Cotton is used to make thread. This
thread is used to make cotton cloth. Cotton is also used to make pillow, quilt, mattress etc. Edible oil is derived from Cotton seed.
Sterilized cotton is used in surgery.

4) Kenaf-Mesta Jute (Hibiscus cannabinus) :

Economic importance: Jute fibre-like fibre is derived from Kenaf-Mesta Jute. Like Jute fibre, this fibre is used to make
rope, bag, sack etc.

5) Mesta Jute (Hibiscus sabdariffa var. altissima) :

Economic importance: Its fibre is used to make rope, sack etc.

6) Land Lotus (Hibiscus mutabilis) :

Economic importance: This plant & its flower increase beauty of the garden.

Economic importance of Malvaceae :

1) The main component of Garments industry 'Cotton' is collected from various species of Gossypium genus of this family.
2) Important fibres are also derived from Kenaf & Mesta Jute.
3) China Rose, Land Lotus, Cotton Rose flower (Malvaviscus arboreus) etc. are decorative plants of garden.
4) China Rose is an ingredient of Puja.
5) Ladies finger is an excellent vegetable.
6) Pencil, toys & agricultural machineries are made from the wood of Indian Tulip (Thespesia populnea).
7) China Rose is used in preparation of various drugs.
8) China Rose, Wild Okra & many other plants of this family have medicinal value.


 Md. Aminul Islam Chowdhury
M. Phil. (Researcher), M. Sc. (Thesis), B. Sc. (Hons.)
14Dept. of Botany, University of Chittagong.
a. Knowledge level questions:
What is –
Major Topic - A: Gymnosperms
1) Gymnosperms
2) Cycad
3) Living fossil
4) Strobilus
5) Leaf scar
6) What is the number of species of
Gymnosperms in the world? - Near 700
7) What is the number of naturally grown
Gymnosperms in Bangladesh? - 5 species
b. Understanding level questions:
Major Topic - A: Gymnosperms
1) What do you understand by ‘Gymnosperms’?
OR, What are the characteristics of Gymnosperms?
2) Why is Cycas called living fossil?
OR, Why is Ginkgo biloba called living fossil?
3) Why is Cycas called ‘Palm fern’?
4) What is meant by ‘Coralloid root’ or, ‘Root tubercle’ of Cycas?
5) What are the identifying characters of Cycas?
6) Why does the seed of Gymnosperm remain open?
7) Mention the economic importance of Cycas.
c. Application level questions:
Major Topic - A: Gymnosperms
Topic - 2  Detail study on Genus: Cycas -
iv) Vegetative structure OR, Structure of sporophyte.
Major Topic - B: Angiosperms
Topic - 4  Detail study on Monocot Plant: Poaceae (Gramineae).
ii) General characters of Family: Poaceae.
Topic - 5  Detail study on Dicot Plant: Malvaceae.
ii) General characters of Family: Malvaceae.
Lecturer (Biology)
Cantonment English School & College
Hello: 01912-85 33 95 ; 01789-64 53 12 .
Aminul Sir
Lecturer (Biology), CESC.
Question Bank 01789 -64 53 12 .
Mark: 1
Major Topic - B: Angiosperms
Monocotyledonous Plant Dicotyledonous Plant
1) Angiosperms / Flowering plant 1) Staminal tube
2) Culm / Fistular stem
3) Petiolate (Pedicellate) and Sessile leaf 2) Monadelphous stamen
4) Lodicule (Perianth) and Tepal
3) Write down the floral formula of China
5) Racemose and Cymose inflorescence
6) Floret Rose plant.
7) Bract and Bracteole
8) Zygomorphic and Actinomorphic flower
9) Versatile anther
10) Caryopsis fruit
11) Floral formula
12) Floral diagram
13) Placenta and Placentation
14) Write down the floral formula of Paddy
plant.
Mark: 2
Major Topic - B: Angiosperms
1) What do you understand by ‘Angiosperms / Flowering plants’?
OR, What are the characteristics of Angiosperms/Flowering plants?
2) Introduce the families of Angiosperms based on Arthur Cronquist?
3) Compare between Petiole and Stipule.
4) What do you mean by ‘Spikelet inflorescence’?
OR, How is ‘Spikelet inflorescence’ formed in Poaceae?
5) How will you compare between Epigynous and Hypogynous flower?
6) What are the features of gynoecium of Paddy plant?
7) What are the identifying characters of Poaceae family?
8) What are the differences between Liliopsida (Monocot) and
Magnoliopsida (Dicot)?
9) What are the differences between Gymnosperms and
Angiosperms?
10) What are the similarities between Gymnosperms and
Angiosperms?
11) Compare between Valvate aestivation and Twisted aestivation.
12) What are the identifying characters of Malvaceae family?
Mark: 3 d. Higher skill level questions: Mark: 4
Major Topic - A: Gymnosperms
Topic - 2  Detail study on Genus: Cycas -
v) Reproduction (in brief).
Major Topic - B: Angiosperms
Topic - 4  Detail study on Monocot Plant: Poaceae (Gramineae).
v) Economic importance of Family: Poaceae.
Topic - 5  Detail study on Dicot Plant: Malvaceae.
v) Economic importance of Family: Malvaceae.