Why do ferns grow to be much larger than bryophytes?

Ferns grow larger than bryophytes primarily due to their vascular system, which allows for efficient transport of water, nutrients, and photosynthetic products throughout the plant. This vascular structure supports greater height and size, enabling ferns to access more light and resources. Additionally, ferns have evolved stronger structural support through lignin in their cell walls, which allows them to grow upright and develop larger fronds compared to the small, non-vascular bryophytes, which rely on diffusion for nutrient transport and are limited in size.