Gymnosperms are characterized by the

Options

A. absence of seeds
B. presence of flowers
C. presence of seeds in cones
D. absence of vascular tissues

Answer

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Understanding Gymnosperms**: Gymnosperms are a group of seed-producing plants. The term "Gymnosperm" comes from Greek, where "gymno" means naked and "sperm" means seed. This indicates that their seeds are not enclosed in an ovary (fruit).

2. **Analyzing the Options**:
- **Absence of Seeds**: This option is incorrect. Gymnosperms are seed-bearing plants.
- **Presence of Flowers**: This option is also incorrect. Gymnosperms do not produce flowers; they reproduce using cones.
- **Presence of Seeds in Cones**: This option is correct. Gymnosperms produce seeds that are typically found in cones.
- **Absence of Vascular Tissue**: This option is incorrect. Gymnosperms possess vascular tissue, including xylem and phloem.

3. **Conclusion**: Based on the analysis, the characteristic that correctly describes Gymnosperms is the "presence of seeds in cones".

4. **Final Answer**: The correct option is the presence of seeds in cones.

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