A scientist is observing a gymnosperm. It is a desert shrub with needle-like leaves. The shrub has a deep root system and produces cones. Which gymnosperm is the scientist most likely observing? A. She is observing a gnetophyte because, unlike other gymnosperms, gnetophytes can grow as shrubs in deserts. B. She is observing a gnetophyte because, unlike other gymnosperms, gnetophytes can have needle-like leaves and deep root systems. C. She is observing a ginkgo because, unlike other gymnosperms, ginkgoes can grow as shrubs in deserts. D. She is observing a ginkgo because, unlike other gymnosperms, ginkgoes can have needle-like leaves and deep root systems. PLZ HURRY!!!

A)She is observing a Gnetophyte,because unlike other gymnosperms, Gnetophyte can grow in desert as shrubs

Explanation:

DIVISION GNETOPHYTA

This is the group of very unique gymnosperms made up of three genera;Gnetum, *Ephedra* and Welwitschia. They are unique in the sense that they have some features in common with angiosperms making some botanists think that gnetophyte might have been ancestral to the angiosperms.

In relation to the question,one of the gnetophyte genera is most related to the answer A,which is the *Ephedra*

EPHEDRA:This is the profusely branched *shrub* found in *desert regions*. It has whorled scale-like or *needle-like leaves*,and jointed stem. The stems are green and carry bulk of photosynthesis activities of the plant. Xylem vessels are available. Species of Ephedra are either monoecious (when the male and female cones are on one plant) or dioecious(where the male and female cones are on separate plants).

Ephedra is known for the drug "ephedrine",used in relieving congestion of the upper respiratory tract . Ephedra is represented by Ephedra sinica

answer; synapse;