Definition

A type of plant or plant-like organism that reproduces using spores instead of seeds or flowers, including mosses, ferns, algae, and fungi.

Example

Mosses and ferns are examples of cryptogams that thrive in moist environments.

Conversation

Have you ever studied cryptogams in school?

No, I haven't, but I've heard they include things like ferns and mosses.

Yeah, they are fascinating because they don't produce flowers or seeds.

That makes them really unique compared to most plants!

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Cryptogam → It is formed from "crypto-" (from Greek "kryptos", meaning hidden or secret) and "gam" (from Greek "gamos", meaning marriage or union). The term refers to plants that reproduce by means of spores rather than seeds, thus their reproductive structures are often hidden or not immediately visible.

Memory Tip

Think of 'hidden' ('crypto-') plants that reproduce through 'union' ('gamos') of spores, which helps you remember that cryptogams are plants with hidden reproductive features.

Visually Confused Words