Question

Which of these gymnosperms are known to be important in maintaining the balance of carbon in an ecosystem?

Answer 1

Answer: D. redwood tree forests

Redwood forests can be significant reservoir for fixing atmospheric carbon dioxide. Through photosynthesis the redwood tree captures the atmospheric carbon and convert it into glucose as an energy reservoir for trees. Also, the soil organic matter of redwood forests is the accumulation of dead plant material, partially decayed or completely decayed plant and animal matter fixes carbon in the form of decomposed matter. This decomposed matter is again absorbed by plants. Hence, maintains the balance of carbon in the ecosystem.

Answer 2

The correct answer is:     [D]:

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                    →   " redwood tree forests " .

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 Note:  Let us consider the other answer choices.

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Choice:  [A]:  "garden flowering plants" ;  is incorrect  — since these are not generally considered to be part of a true or traditional "ecosystem" ; and especially since "garden flowering plants" are, in fact, "flowering plants" —  which means that they are "angiosperms" —  Not  "gymnosperms ".

      →  Rule out:  " Choice:  [A] " .

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Choice:  [B]:  " ferns and liverworts " ; is incorrect — since both  ferns — as well as liverworts — are Not  "gymnosperms ".  

          Liverworts are "bryophytes" {which lack true vascular tissue] ; and ferns are "pterophytes" ["seedless vascular plants"].

      →  Rule out:  " Choice:  [B] " .

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Choice:  [C]: " mosses and horsetails "; is incorrect ;  since both mosses — as well as horsetails — are Not  "gymnosperms ".   Mosses are "bryophytes" (see aforementioned) ; and horsetails are "non-seed bearing plants" that spread vegetatively [underground; by asexual reproduction — and Not by seed .].

      →  Rule out:  " Choice:  [C] " .

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Choice:  [D]: " redwood tree forests "  ;

               — is the only answer choice provided that is a "gymnosperm".    

             Furthermore, the "redwood tree" is a conifer (i.e. "coniferous; or, "cone-bearing" plant} that reproduces through seeds spread by "cone") — and all "conifers" are a type of "gymnosperm."  

            Furthermore, "redwood trees" grow large and tall, and redwood forest communities within an ecosystem; due to there size and presence, are:  "known to be important in maintaining the balance of carbon in an ecosystem."

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 →  As such, the correct answer is:

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 →  Answer choice:  [D]:  " redwood tree forests " .

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Hope this helps!

    Best wishes to you in your academic endeavors

           — and within the "Brainly" community!

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