What is the economic importance of gymnosperms?

State Eight economic importance of gymnosperms.?

• Answer:

  The gymnosperms are a group of seed-bearing plants that includes conifers, cycads, Ginkgo, and Gnetales. The term "gymnosperm" comes from the Greek word gymnospermos (γυμνόσπερμος), meaning "naked seeds", after the unenclosed condition of their seeds (called ovules in their unfertilized state). Their naked condition stands in contrast to the seeds or ovules of flowering plants (angiosperms), which are enclosed during pollination. Gymnosperm seeds develop either on the surface of scale- or leaf-like appendages of cones, or at the end of short stalks (Ginkgo). The gymnosperms and angiosperms together comprise the spermatophytes or seed plants. By far the largest group of living gymnosperms are the conifers (pines, cypresses, and relatives), followed by cycads, Gnetales (Gnetophyta, Ephedra and Welwitschia), and Ginkgo (a single living species). Examples of gymnosperms include cycads, ginkgo, conifers and gnetops. Ecological importance Provide food (especially seeds) and cover/habitat for wildlife Great forests prevent soil erosion Reduce greenhouse gasses Economic importance Lumber- fence posts, musical instruments, pencils, cedar chests, lawn furniture Paper pulp- cardboard, paper Resins- varnish, nail polish Turpentine- soap, perfumes Fuel for heat Ornamental plants Christmas trees Food- pine nuts (pine seeds)