Question

Bryophytes can be differentiated from thallophytes based on which of the following characters?

• A. In bryophytes, sporophyte is completely dependent on the gametophyte
• B. Bryophytes are generally terrestrial
• C. Rhizoids are more common in bryophytes
• D. All of the above.

Answer 1

The correct option is D All of the above.

Bryophytes are also called amphibians of the plant kingdom because these plants can live in soil but are dependent on water for sexual reproduction. The plant body of bryophytes is more differentiated than that of algae. It is thallus-like, prostrate or erect, and attached to the substratum by unicellular or multicellular rhizoids. Algae on the other hand, are thalloid with no differentiated structures. In Bryophytes, the sporophyte is not free-living but is attached to the photosynthetic gametophyte and derives nourishment from it. Algae are chlorophyll-bearing, simple, thalloid, autotrophic and largely aquatic (both freshwater and marine) organisms. Bryophytes are usually terrestrial and grow in moist, shady, damp places.