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The fern tree would likely face greater barriers to sexual reproduction than the moss tree.
One of the main barriers to sexual reproduction in tall plants is the need for effective dispersal of spores or seeds over large distances. In the case of a 10 m tall moss or fern tree, this can be a significant challenge, as the spores or seeds need to be transported far from the parent plant in order to avoid competition with siblings and colonize new habitats.
Moss spores are typically very small and can be easily dispersed by wind or water, allowing for relatively efficient long-distance dispersal. Ferns, on the other hand, produce much larger spores that are generally not as easily dispersed. Additionally, ferns often rely on water for spore dispersal, which can be more limiting than wind dispersal, especially in terrestrial habitats.
Furthermore, ferns are also typically dependent on water for sexual reproduction, as the sperm need to swim through a film of water to reach the egg. This can be a significant barrier for tall fern trees, as the sperm may need to travel a considerable distance to reach a suitable mate.
Overall, while both moss and fern trees may face barriers to sexual reproduction due to their height, the larger spores of ferns and their dependence on water for both spore dispersal and fertilization may make sexual reproduction more difficult for fern trees.
