🔬general biology i review

Extant

Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated August 2025
Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated August 2025

Definition

Extant refers to species, organisms, or genera that are still in existence and have not gone extinct. It is the opposite of extinct, indicating survival through various evolutionary and environmental changes.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

  1. Extant seedless plants include ferns, horsetails, and clubmosses.
  2. Extant species provide insight into the evolutionary history of early plant life.
  3. Studying extant plants helps scientists understand the adaptations necessary for survival in different environments.
  4. Most extant seedless plants reproduce via spores rather than seeds.
  5. The diversity among extant seedless plants illustrates a wide range of morphological and ecological adaptations.
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