Fern Basics
What is the name of the leaves of a fern?
Fronds
What is the main stem of a fern called?
Stipe
What is the first stage of a fern's life cycle?
Spore
Name a common indoor fern
Boston fern
In what type of habitat are ferns most commonly found?
Moist, shady areas
What is the process called where ferns reproduce using spores?
Spore reproduction
What are the small leaflets on a fern frond called?
Pinnae
What is the name of the heart-shaped gametophyte stage of ferns?
Prothallus
What type of fern is known for its delicate, lacy fronds and is often used in floral arrangements?
Maidenhair fern
What role do ferns play in their ecosystem?
Provide habitat and food for other organisms
Which part of the fern anchors it to the ground?
Rhizome
What structure on the underside of a fern frond contains spores?
Sori
What structure on the prothallus produces sperm?
Antheridium
Which fern is known for its ability to grow on rocks and cliffs?
Rock fern
True or False: Ferns can grow in deserts.
True (some species can)
True or False: Ferns produce flowers.
False
Which part of the fern absorbs water and nutrients?
Roots
What structure on the prothallus produces eggs?
Archegonium
What type of fern can be found in tropical rainforests and has large, divided fronds?
Tree fern
How do ferns contribute to the soil?
Through decomposition of their fronds
What is the name of the young, coiled fronds of a fern?
Fiddleheads
What is the name of the tissue that transports water in ferns?
Xylem
What is the process called when a spore germinates into a prothallus?
Gametophyte development
Name a fern that is commonly found in temperate forests and has leathery, evergreen fronds.
Sword fern
What is a key difference in habitat preference between epiphytic and terrestrial ferns?
Epiphytic ferns grow on other plants, while terrestrial ferns grow in the soil