Strobili

Definition

Strobili are cone-like structures that bear the reproductive organs of certain non-flowering plants, such as ferns, horsetails, and club mosses. They consist of a central axis with spirally arranged scales or sporophylls.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Strobili are found in many seedless vascular plants.
2. They contain sporangia which produce spores through meiosis.
3. Strobili can be either male or female, depending on the type of spores they produce.
4. In horsetails, strobili are located at the tips of the stems.
5. The formation of strobili is an adaptation to protect reproductive cells and aid in spore dispersal.

Review Questions

• What role do strobili play in the reproduction of seedless vascular plants?
• How do strobili contribute to spore dispersal?
• In what types of plants are strobili most commonly found?

Related terms

Sporangium: A structure where spores are produced through meiosis.

Sporophyll: A leaf-like structure that bears sporangia.

Gametophyte: The haploid stage in the life cycle of plants that produces gametes (sperm and eggs).