EVERYDAY SCIENCE

Detailed explanation-1: -In conifers, the male and female sporangia are produced on separate structures called cones or strobili. Individual trees are typically monoecious (male and female cones are borne on the same tree).

Detailed explanation-2: -Most conifers are simultaneously male and female. This is called monoecious and is common among many tree species. A single tree can produce female cones that are fertilised by male pollen. Once fertilised, the cone can drop from the tree and begin to germinate if conditions are right.

Detailed explanation-3: -About 65% of gymnosperms are dioecious, but conifers are almost all monoecious. Some genera have mycorrhiza, fungal associations with roots (Pinus), while in some others (Cycas) small specialised roots called coralloid roots are associated with nitrogen-fixing cyanobacteria.

Detailed explanation-4: -Monoecious plants have both male and female reproductive structures on the same plant. Monoecious is the same as bisexual or homothallic. Monoecious plants have both male and female reproductive parts in the same plant. E.g. cucurbits and coconuts. Monoecious plants produce both male and female gametes.

Detailed explanation-5: -Cones: male and female reproductive structures. Female cones are diploid tissue produced by the dominant sporophyte stage.