The evolutionary important character of Selaginella is

Options

A. Presence of ligule
B. Unorganized strobili
C. The characteristic functions of rhizopores
D. Heterosporous nature

Answer

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

1. **Understanding Selaginella**: Selaginella is a genus of vascular plants that are often referred to as "spike mosses." They are part of the group of plants known as lycophytes, which are ancient relatives of ferns and seed plants.

2. **Identifying Key Characteristics**: The question asks for the evolutionary important character of Selaginella. We need to analyze the options provided:
- a. Presence of ligule
- b. Unorganized strobili
- c. The characteristic function of rhizospores
- d. Heterosporous nature

3. **Evaluating the Options**:
- **Presence of ligule**: While ligules are present in some plants, they are not the most significant evolutionary trait of Selaginella.
- **Unorganized strobili**: Strobili (cones) are present in Selaginella, but their organization is not a defining evolutionary characteristic.
- **Characteristic function of rhizospores**: Rhizospores are involved in reproduction, but they do not represent a major evolutionary advancement.
- **Heterosporous nature**: This is the production of two different types of spores – microspores (male) and megaspores (female). This trait is significant as it represents an evolutionary advancement towards seed formation.

4. **Conclusion**: The most evolutionary important character of Selaginella is its heterosporous nature, which indicates a step towards the development of seed plants. Therefore, the correct answer is option **d. Heterosporous nature**.

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