Which of the following statement is incorrect for gymnosperm?

Options

A. Leaves may be simple or compound
B. In Cycas, the pinnate leaves persist for a many years
C. Thick cuticle and sunken stomata of needle-like leaves also help to reduce water loss
D. In conifers, the needle-like leaves reduce the surface area

Answer

To determine which statement is incorrect regarding gymnosperms, we need to analyze the characteristics of gymnosperms and the statements provided.

### 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," indicating that their seeds are not enclosed within an ovary wall.

2. **Characteristics of Gymnosperms**:
- Gymnosperms have seeds that are exposed or "naked."
- They do not produce fruits.
- Their leaves can be simple or compound.
- They are well adapted to withstand extreme environmental conditions, such as temperature and humidity.

3. **Analyzing the Statements**:
- **Statement 1**: "Gymnosperms do not produce fruits."
- This is correct because gymnosperms have naked seeds and do not form fruits.
- **Statement 2**: "Leaves of Cycas persist for many years."
- This statement is incorrect. The leaves of Cycas (a type of gymnosperm) are pinnate and typically persist for a few years, not many years.
- **Statement 3**: "Gymnosperms have needle-like leaves to reduce surface area."
- This is correct. Needle-like leaves help reduce water loss and are a common adaptation in conifers.
- **Statement 4**: "Gymnosperms have thick cuticles and sunken stomata."
- This statement is also correct. These adaptations help gymnosperms reduce water loss in harsh environments.

4. **Conclusion**:
- The incorrect statement regarding gymnosperms is the one about the leaves of Cycas persisting for many years. The correct information is that they persist for a few years.

### Final Answer:
The incorrect statement for gymnosperms is: "Leaves of Cycas persist for many years."