Lycophytes are a group of vascular plants that include clubmosses, spikemosses, and quillworts. They are among the oldest living plant lineages, dating back over 400 million years. Lycophytes typically have small, scale-like leaves and reproduce via spores rather than seeds. They thrive in a variety of habitats, from moist forests to rocky terrains. These plants play a significant role in their ecosystems, contributing to soil formation and providing habitat for various organisms. Lycophytes are also of interest in studies of plant evolution and ecology, as they share characteristics with both ancient and modern plants.