Coal has been mainly formed by

Options

A. Bryophytes
B. Pteridophytes/pteridosperms
C. Angiosperms
D. Algae

Answer

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Understanding Coal Formation**: Coal is formed from the accumulation of organic material, primarily plant matter, over millions of years. This process involves several stages, starting from the accumulation of plant debris to the formation of peat and eventually coal.

2. **Identifying the Initial Material**: The initial material that contributes to coal formation is known as peat. Peat is formed from the partial decomposition of plant material in waterlogged conditions.

3. **Determining the Source of Peat**: The question asks about the main source of coal. Peat is primarily derived from certain types of plants. Among the options provided (Dryophytes, Pteridophytes, Pteridosperms, Angiosperms, and Algae), we need to identify which group contributes most significantly to peat formation.

4. **Analyzing the Options**:
- **Dryophytes**: This term generally refers to a group of non-vascular plants, including mosses and liverworts. They thrive in moist environments and can contribute to peat formation.
- **Pteridophytes**: These are vascular plants like ferns, which can also contribute to peat but are not the primary source.
- **Pteridosperms**: These are seed ferns and are not typically associated with peat formation.
- **Angiosperms**: These are flowering plants, which can contribute to peat but are not the main source.
- **Algae**: While algae can contribute to organic material, they are not the primary source of coal.

5. **Conclusion**: Based on the information, the main contributor to coal formation is peat, which is primarily derived from **Dryophytes**, particularly sphagnum mosses. Therefore, the correct answer is that coal has been mainly formed by **Dryophytes**.

**Final Answer**: Coal has been mainly formed by Dryophytes.

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