Plantae

Common Names

Plants are commonly referred to as "flora," "vegetation," or simply "plants." However, the term "Plantae" specifically refers to a taxonomic kingdom within the biological classification system.

Characteristics

Plants exhibit a wide range of characteristics, including:

• Multicellularity: Plants are composed of multiple cells organized into tissues and organs.
• Eukaryotic: Plant cells contain a nucleus and other membrane-bound organelles.
• Photosynthesis: Plants utilize chlorophyll to convert sunlight into chemical energy, producing oxygen as a byproduct.
• Cell Walls: Plant cells possess rigid cell walls made of cellulose, providing structural support.
• Alternation of Generations: Plants have a life cycle that alternates between a haploid gametophyte stage and a diploid sporophyte stage.

Environments

Plants are found in a wide variety of terrestrial and aquatic environments, including:

• Forests: Forests are characterized by dense stands of trees, providing shade and a diverse ecosystem.
• Grasslands: Grasslands are dominated by grasses and other herbaceous plants, often found in dry or temperate regions.
• Deserts: Deserts are arid environments with limited rainfall, supporting specialized plants adapted to water scarcity.
• Aquatic: Plants have adapted to aquatic environments, including freshwater lakes, rivers, and marine ecosystems.

Marine Plants

Marine plants, also known as seaweeds or macroalgae, are a diverse group of photosynthetic organisms that inhabit the oceans. They play a significant role in coastal ecosystems, providing food and shelter for marine life.

References

Wikipedia: Plantae
Britannica: Plant
National Geographic: Plant