This 160 Gbp genome dwarfs the human genome by over 50 times. Yet, its complexity as an organism doesn't match this genomic enormity. This stark disconnection, a modern twist on the C-value paradox, suggests that genome size and organism complexity are far from straightforwardly linked. Instead of functional genes, the vast expanse of DNA is dominated by polyploidy and non-coding repetitive elements. This discovery pushes us to rethink the biological and evolutionary implications of such massive genomes and what drives their expansion.
Or just added redundancy for radiation resistance. There was less oxygen and subsequently less ozone when ferns first evolved, so there would be far more UV light to protect against.
