A newly discovered plant was found to be a gymnosperm because it

Options

A. lacks ovary but possesses exposed ovules
B. possesses xylem vessels
C. bears pollen grains
D. develops fruits

Answer

To determine why the newly discovered plant is classified as a gymnosperm, we can analyze the characteristics mentioned in the question and the video transcript.

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understanding Gymnosperms**:
- Gymnosperms are a group of seed-producing plants that do not form flowers or fruits. The term "gymnosperm" means "naked seeds," which refers to the fact that their seeds are not enclosed in an ovary.

2. **Lack of Ovary**:
- The plant in question lacks an ovary. In gymnosperms, seeds develop from ovules that are exposed, rather than being enclosed within a fruit. This is a key characteristic that distinguishes them from angiosperms (flowering plants).

3. **Presence of Exposed Ovules**:
- The plant possesses exposed ovules. In gymnosperms, ovules are not enclosed by any ovary wall, which aligns with the definition of gymnosperms.

4. **Xylem Vessels**:
- The presence of xylem vessels indicates that the plant has a vascular system, which is typical for gymnosperms. Xylem is responsible for the transport of water and nutrients.

5. **Pollen Grains**:
- The plant bears pollen grains, which are essential for reproduction in gymnosperms. Pollen grains carry the male gametes and are necessary for fertilization.

6. **Absence of Fruit Development**:
- Since the plant lacks an ovary, it will not produce fruits. Fruits develop from the ovary of a flower in angiosperms, so their absence further confirms that the plant is a gymnosperm.

7. **Conclusion**:
- Based on the characteristics outlined, the newly discovered plant is classified as a gymnosperm because it lacks an ovary but possesses exposed ovules, has xylem vessels, and bears pollen grains. It does not develop fruits, which is consistent with gymnosperm classification.

### Final Answer:
The newly discovered plant was found to be a gymnosperm because it lacks an ovary but possesses exposed ovules.