Life Cycle of Bryophytes, Definition, Sex Organs, and Life Cycle

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Life Cycle of Bryophytes

The life cycle of bryophytes is characterized by two main phases:

Gametophyte Phase (Haploid)

• The gametophyte is the dominant, independent phase in the life cycle of bryophytes.
• It develops from a haploid spore and consists of a leafy or thalloid structure.
• The gametophyte is responsible for sexual reproduction, producing gametes (sperm and egg cells) in specialized organs called antheridia (male) and archegonia (female).
• Water is required for the fertilization process, as the sperm must swim through the water to reach the egg.
• After fertilization, a diploid zygote is formed within the archegonium.

Sporophyte Phase (Diploid)

• The sporophyte is the diploid phase and grows from the fertilized zygote within the archegonium of the female gametophyte.
• Unlike the gametophyte, the sporophyte is dependent on the gametophyte for nutrients and water.
• The sporophyte is made up of a foot, a stalk (seta), and a capsule that generates spores.
• The sporophyte undergoes meiosis to produce haploid spores that are released into the environment.
• These spores will develop into new gametophytes, thus finishing the cycle.

Alternation of Generations in Bryophytes

Bryophytes display heteromorphic alternation of generations, meaning the gametophyte and sporophyte are structurally different. The life cycle alternates between the haploid gametophyte generation and the diploid sporophyte generation, with the gametophyte being the dominant phase. This alternation ensures genetic diversity and continuity in the plant population.

MCQs of Life Cycle of Bryophytes

Q1. The prominent phase in the life cycle of bryophytes is;

1. gametophyte.
2. sporophyte.
3. seta.
4. sporogonium.

Q2. In bryophyte embryo develops inside the;

1. archegonium.
2. antheridium.
3. sporophyll.
4. cone.

Q3. The main plant body of bryophytes is;

1. diploid.
2. haploid.
3. sporophyte.
4. Both (2) and (3)

Answers of MCQs of the Life Cycle of Bryophytes

Ans1 . Gametophyte, Ans2 . Archegonium, Ans3 . Haploid. Unlock your potential with Physics Wallah's NEET coaching ! Our expert educators provide comprehensive study materials, interactive classes, and personalized guidance to help you excel in your NEET exams .