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Showing posts from November, 2024

Reproductive Structures of Pteridophyte

  Reproductive Structures of Pteridophyte The Pteridophyte sporophyte, besides being a prominent component of soil and vegetation, is an important ornamental plant in gardens and lawns. Indoors, its gracefulness and shape fit it ideally as a plant for pot culture in hallways and living rooms, especially during the months of November to March. Transportation of whole plants from one place to another without damage is attempted by packing them in sand, decomposed silt, ashes, or sawdust. Despite their rich horticultural value, many Pteridophytes are vanishing from nature due to indiscriminate destruction of their natural habitats and capturing of species for ornamental purposes. The best means of conservation is an adequate botanical knowledge of these plants, together with their habitats. The approaches of the non-destructive collection of herbarium specimens are now being stressed. The collection is also supplemented with data regarding the locality and habitat, so as to make it de...

ECOLOGICAL IMPORTANCE OF FUNGI

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  ECOLOGICAL IMPORTANCE OF FUNGI Fungi play crucial ecological roles that contribute to the stability and productivity of ecosystems. Fungi are the most hyper diverse lineage of eukaryotes and have been horizontally invading lithogenic substrates since their inception. Their unique abilities to decompose, form symbiotic relationships, enhance soil health, and contribute to ecological balance make them indispensable for healthy ecosystems. Their main ecological importance includes:   1.    Decomposition and Nutrient Cycling: Fungi play a major role in the decomposition of organic matter and the cycling of nutrients in ecosystems. Organic materials consist of a variety of complex compounds such as cellulose and lignin. Fungi possess enzymes that break these substrates down, depolymerizing them, so that they can be taken up as nutrients. In ecosystems, most of the organic material composed of complex carbohydrates is found in the form of dead plants and dead an...