Question

Identify the incorrect pair :

• A. Sphenopsida – Adiantum
• B. Pteropsida – Dryopteris
• C. Psilopsida – Psilotum
• D. Lycopsida – Selaginella

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

To identify the incorrect pair from the provided options, we need to understand the classification of different plant groups based on their evolutionary characteristics:

1. Sphenopsida: This class includes plants commonly known as horsetails. The representative genus for Sphenopsida is Equisetum. Therefore, Adiantum does not belong to Sphenopsida, making this pair incorrect.
2. Pteropsida: This class includes ferns and flowering plants. Dryopteris is a type of fern and correctly belongs to Pteropsida.
3. Psilopsida: This class is characterized by primitive vascular plants, and Psilotum is a correct example of this group.
4. Lycopsida: This class includes club mosses and spike mosses. Selaginella is an example of Lycopsida, making this pair correct.

In summary, the incorrect pair is Sphenopsida – Adiantum. Adiantum, commonly known as 'maidenhair fern', actually belongs to the Pteropsida class.

Thus, the provided option that contains the incorrect pairing is Sphenopsida – Adiantum.