Answer: Liverwort.
- A Moss
- B Liverwort
- C Hornwort
- D Fern
Correct answer: B. Liverwort
Explanation: Marchantia polymorpha is a liverwort (class Hepaticopsida). It has a flat, ribbon-like thallus and reproduces both sexually and asexually (by gemmae cups).
Plants evolved from water-dependent algae through increasingly land-adapted groups, gaining vascular tissue (Pteridophyta), then seeds (Gymnosperms), and finally fruit-enclosed seeds (Angiosperms) - each step reducing dependence on water for reproduction.
Concept context
Classification of plants from algae to angiosperms. Understanding plant diversity is essential for NEET.