Which among the following is a living fossil gymnosperm?

Options

A. Pinus roxburghii
B. Medullosa noei
C. Ginkgo biloba
D. Abies pindrow

Answer

**Step-by-Step Text Solution:**

1. **Understand the term "living fossil":** A living fossil refers to a species that has remained relatively unchanged over a long period of geological time and resembles species known only from the fossil record. These species are often considered to be the closest living relatives of extinct organisms.

2. **Identify the category of plants:** The question specifically asks for a living fossil that belongs to the gymnosperm group. Gymnosperms are a group of seed-producing plants that includes conifers, cycads, Ginkgo, and gnetophytes.

3. **Evaluate the options:** The options provided in the question likely include various gymnosperms. Among these, we need to identify which one is recognized as a living fossil.

4. **Recognize Ginkgo biloba:** Ginkgo biloba is a well-known gymnosperm that is often referred to as a living fossil. It is native to China and is considered the only surviving member of its group, dating back over 200 million years.

5. **Confirm the characteristics of Ginkgo biloba:** Ginkgo biloba has distinctive fan-shaped leaves and is known for its resilience and ability to survive in urban environments. It is also used in traditional medicine, particularly for treating altitude sickness.

6. **Eliminate other options:** Other gymnosperms mentioned, such as Pinus roxburghii, Medullosa noae, and Abies pindrow, do not have the same historical significance or recognition as living fossils as Ginkgo biloba does.

7. **Conclusion:** Therefore, the correct answer to the question is Ginkgo biloba, which is the living fossil gymnosperm.

**Final Answer:** Ginkgo biloba is the living fossil gymnosperm.

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