Which set of plants represents gymnosperms which grow in a temperate area with a branched stem and are having needle-like leaves to reduce the surface area ?

Options

A. Cedrus , Eucalyptus
B. Cycas, wolffia
C. Cycas, Ginkgo
D. Pinus, Cedrus

Answer

To solve the question regarding which set of plants represents gymnosperms that grow in temperate areas with a branched stem and needle-like leaves, we can follow these steps:

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understand Gymnosperms**: Gymnosperms are a group of seed-producing plants that include conifers, cycads, Ginkgo, and gnetophytes. Their seeds are not enclosed in an ovary (hence "naked seeds").

**Hint**: Remember that gymnosperms are characterized by their exposed seeds and include plants like conifers.

2. **Identify Characteristics**: The question specifies that we need plants with:
- A branched stem
- Needle-like leaves
- Adaptation to temperate areas

**Hint**: Focus on the adaptations of plants to temperate climates, especially those that have needle-like leaves to minimize water loss.

3. **Evaluate Options**: The options given are:
- A) Cedrus (Cedar)
- B) Eucalyptus
- C) Cycas
- D) Ginkgo
- E) Pinus (Pine)

**Hint**: Compare each option against the characteristics of gymnosperms and their adaptations.

4. **Analyze Each Option**:
- **Cedrus (Cedar)**: This is a gymnosperm with a branched stem and needle-like leaves, suitable for temperate regions.
- **Eucalyptus**: This is a dicot angiosperm, not a gymnosperm.
- **Cycas**: This is a gymnosperm but typically has an unbranched stem.
- **Ginkgo**: This is also a gymnosperm but does not have needle-like leaves.
- **Pinus (Pine)**: This is a gymnosperm with a branched stem and needle-like leaves, well adapted to temperate climates.

**Hint**: Eliminate options that do not fit the criteria of being gymnosperms with branched stems and needle-like leaves.

5. **Select the Correct Answer**: The correct set of plants that meet all the criteria is:
- **Pinus and Cedrus**: Both are gymnosperms, have branched stems, and possess needle-like leaves.

**Hint**: Look for combinations of plants that share the same characteristics outlined in the question.

### Final Answer:
The correct answer is **Pinus and Cedrus**.