What distinguishes vascular plants from algae?

The key distinguishing feature that sets vascular plants apart from algae is the presence of specialized tissues, including roots and stems. Vascular plants, such as ferns, conifers, and flowering plants, possess a vascular system, which consists of xylem and phloem. This system facilitates the transport of water, nutrients, and sugars throughout the plant, allowing these organisms to grow taller and more complex than algae.

Roots provide anchorage and help absorb water and minerals from the soil, while stems support the plant structure and transport resources between the roots and leaves. The presence of leaves, which contain chlorophyll and are involved in photosynthesis, further contributes to the plant's ability to thrive in various terrestrial environments.

In contrast, algae do not have a vascular system or specialized structures like roots and stems. They are typically simpler organisms and can be found in a wide range of environments, including both aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems, but they generally lack the complexity and adaptability that comes with vascularization.