Leaves of ferns are

Options

A. (a) fronds with reticulate venation
B. (b) haploid
C. (c) pinnately compound and grow by apical meristem
D. (d) all of the above.

Answer

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understanding the Question**: The question asks about the characteristics of leaves in ferns. It is important to identify the correct terminology and anatomical features associated with fern leaves.

2. **Identifying Fern Leaves**: The leaves of ferns are specifically called "fronds." This is a key term to remember when discussing fern anatomy.

3. **Anatomy of Fern Leaves**:
- **Blade and Petiole**: A fern leaf consists of two main parts: the blade (the broad part of the leaf) and the petiole (the stalk that attaches the leaf to the stem).
- **Venation**: Fern leaves exhibit a unique type of venation known as "circinate venation." This means the leaves and leaflets unfurl from a coiled position as they grow.

4. **Evaluating Options**:
- **Option A**: "Fronds with reticulate venation" is incorrect because fern leaves do not have reticulate venation; they have circinate venation.
- **Option B**: "Haploid" is incorrect as ferns are diploid organisms, meaning they have two sets of chromosomes.
- **Option C**: "Pinnate compound and grow by apical meristem" is correct. Fern leaves are indeed pinnate (divided into smaller leaflets) and compound, and they grow from the apical meristem.

5. **Conclusion**: Based on the analysis of the options, the correct answer is that the leaves of ferns are "pinnate compound and grow by apical meristem."