Which character most differentiates angiosperms from gymnosperms ?

Options

A. Triploid endosperm
B. Vessels in xylem
C. Seeds enclosed in fruits
D. Attractive petels

Answer

To determine which character most differentiates angiosperms from gymnosperms, we need to analyze the key features of both groups.

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understand the Definitions**:
- **Angiosperms**: These are flowering plants that produce seeds enclosed within a fruit.
- **Gymnosperms**: These are non-flowering plants that produce seeds that are not enclosed in a fruit (the term "gymnosperm" means "naked seed").

2. **Examine the Options**:
- **Diploid Endosperm**: This is a characteristic of angiosperms but is not a primary differentiating factor from gymnosperms.
- **Vessels in Xylem**: Angiosperms typically have vessels in their xylem, while gymnosperms usually have tracheids. However, this is not the most significant difference.
- **Seeds Enclosed in Fruit**: This is a defining characteristic of angiosperms. In contrast, gymnosperms have seeds that are exposed and not enclosed in any fruit.
- **Attractive Petals**: While angiosperms often have attractive petals for pollination, this is not a universal trait and does not serve as the most significant differentiator.

3. **Identify the Key Difference**:
- The most significant characteristic that differentiates angiosperms from gymnosperms is that angiosperms have seeds that are enclosed in fruit, while gymnosperms have naked seeds that are not enclosed.

4. **Conclusion**:
- Therefore, the correct answer is **"Seeds enclosed in fruit"**.