Bryophytes are popularly called as amphibian plants because `:`

Options

A. They grow on land
B. They require external free water for sexual reproduction
C. They are aquatic
D. All of these

Answer

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Understanding Bryophytes**:
- Bryophytes are non-vascular plants that include mosses and liverworts. They are often found in moist environments and are known for their ability to survive in various habitats.

2. **Meaning of 'Amphibian'**:
- The term "amphibian" comes from the Greek words "amphi" meaning "both" and "bios" meaning "life". This indicates that amphibians can live both in water and on land.

3. **Bryophytes as Amphibians**:
- Bryophytes are referred to as amphibian plants because they have a dual life. They can grow on land but require water for certain life processes, particularly for reproduction.

4. **Reproduction in Bryophytes**:
- Bryophytes reproduce sexually, and their male gametes (sperm) are motile and need water to swim to the female gametes (eggs) for fertilization. This requirement for water is a key reason why they are classified as amphibians.

5. **Analyzing the Options**:
- Option 1: "They grow on land" - While true, it does not fully explain why they are called amphibians.
- Option 2: "They require external free water for sexual reproduction" - This is the most accurate explanation.
- Option 3: "They are aquatic" - This is misleading as they are not exclusively aquatic.
- Option 4: "All of these" - This is incorrect as not all statements are true.

6. **Conclusion**:
- The correct answer is that bryophytes are called amphibian plants because they require external free water for sexual reproduction.

**Final Answer**: Bryophytes are popularly called amphibian plants because they require external free water for sexual reproduction.

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