Pteridophyta is a division of vascular plants that includes ferns and fern allies.

They are vascular, sporophyte-dominated, and have true leaves (megaphylls).

Pteridophytes are found in damp, shady places, and some species thrive in dry environments.

They exhibit an alternation of generations life cycle, with a dominant sporophyte phase.

The sporophyte is the dominant, diploid phase that produces spores.

The gametophyte is the smaller, haploid phase that produces gametes.

Pteridophyta is divided into four classes: Psilotopsida, Equisetopsida, Marattiopsida, and Polypodiopsida.

Pteridophytes are considered a link between the bryophytes and the seed plants.

Ferns are used as food, medicine, and ornamental plants.

There are approximately 12,000 species of Pteridophyta, with the majority being ferns.