In the plant kingdom, 'Ferns and Fern allies' belong to which group?

Pteridophyta

The correct answer is Option (1) -Pteridophyta

In the plant kingdom, 'Ferns and Fern allies' belong to the group: Pteridophyta

Ferns and their allies, collectively referred to as pteridophytes, are a group of vascular plants that reproduce via spores. They are characterized by having leaves (known as fronds) that are typically divided into smaller leaflets, and they do not produce flowers or seeds like angiosperms. Instead, they reproduce by producing spores in structures called sporangia, which are typically found on the undersides of the fronds.

Pteridophytes include not only true ferns but also other related groups such as horsetails (Equisetum) and club mosses (Lycopodiaceae). They are found in various habitats worldwide, ranging from moist, shady forests to arid deserts. Ferns and fern allies play important ecological roles, contributing to soil stabilization, nutrient cycling, and habitat diversity. They are also valued for their ornamental beauty and are commonly grown as houseplants or in gardens.