Question

A prothallus is

(a) a structure in pteridophytes formed before the thallus develops

(b) a sporophytic free living structure formed in pteridophytes

(c) a gametophyte free living structure formed in pteridophytes

(d) a primitive structure formed after fertilisation in pteridophytes

Answer 1

(c) Prothallus is usually a gametophyte stage in the life of a Pteridophyte. Spore germinates to form a prothalium, it is short lived inconspicuous heart shaped structure with a number of rhizoids developed beneath and sex organs, archegonium and antheridium.