Question

Selaginella is also known as:

• A. Resurrection plant
• B. Peat moss
• C. Club moss
• D. Horsetail

Hint:

For pteridophyte classification, memorize the common names for the main genera: {Lycopodium} \(\rightarrow\) Club moss {Selaginella} \(\rightarrow\) Spike moss / Resurrection plant {Equisetum} \(\rightarrow\) Horsetail {Pteris}, {Dryopteris}, etc. \(\rightarrow\) Ferns

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
The question asks for a common name for the genus {Selaginella}, which is a pteridophyte.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
Let's examine the common names given in the options:

(A) Resurrection plant: This name is given to several plants that can survive extreme dehydration and appear to come back to life when rehydrated. Certain species of {Selaginella}, notably {Selaginella lepidophylla}, exhibit this remarkable property and are famously sold as "resurrection plants".
(B) Peat moss: This is the common name for bryophytes of the genus {Sphagnum}.
(C) Club moss: This is the common name primarily used for pteridophytes of the genus {Lycopodium}. {Selaginella} is sometimes referred to as "spike moss" or "lesser club moss" due to its resemblance, but "club moss" usually refers to {Lycopodium}.
(D) Horsetail: This is the common name for pteridophytes of the genus {Equisetum}.
Step 3: Final Answer:
While {Selaginella} is related to club mosses, the term "resurrection plant" is a very specific and well-known common name for members of this genus due to their unique physiological adaptation. Therefore, it is the most appropriate answer among the choices.