The appearance of cuticle and stomata correlated with what event in the evolution of green plants? a. the first upright growth forms b. the first woody tissues c. growth on land d. the evolution of the first water-conducting tissues

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the key terms in the question: 'cuticle' and 'stomata'. The cuticle is a waxy layer that helps prevent water loss, and stomata are openings that allow for gas exchange.
2. Understand the function of both features in relation to plant environment. Both cuticle and stomata are adaptations to help plants manage water loss and gas exchange efficiently in a terrestrial environment.
3. Relate these adaptations to the options given. Consider which event would necessitate these adaptations.
4. Recognize that growth on land (option c) would require adaptations to prevent water loss and manage gas exchange due to the drier conditions compared to aquatic environments.
5. Conclude that the appearance of cuticle and stomata correlates with growth on land, as these adaptations are critical for survival in terrestrial environments.

Key Concepts

Cuticle

The cuticle is a waxy layer that covers the surfaces of leaves and stems in plants, providing a protective barrier against water loss and environmental stress. Its development was crucial for terrestrial plants, allowing them to retain moisture and thrive in drier conditions, which was essential for their survival on land.

Stomata

Stomata are small openings on the surfaces of leaves that facilitate gas exchange, allowing carbon dioxide to enter for photosynthesis and oxygen to exit. The evolution of stomata was a significant adaptation for land plants, enabling them to regulate water loss while still obtaining the necessary gases for metabolic processes.

Terrestrial Adaptations

Terrestrial adaptations refer to the evolutionary changes that allowed plants to survive and reproduce in land environments. These adaptations, including the development of cuticles and stomata, were critical for plants to manage water efficiently, resist desiccation, and optimize photosynthesis in a terrestrial habitat.