Question

Consider the following statements regarding gymnosperms.

(A) In gymnosperms, the male and female gametophytes have an independent existence.
(B) The multicellular female gametophyte is retained within the megasporangium.
(C) The gymnosperms are heterosporous.

• A. (A) and (B) are true but (C) is false
• B. (A) and (C) are true but (B) is false
• C. (B) and (C) are false but (A) is true
• D. (B) and (C) are true but (A) is false.

Answer 1

The correct option is D (B) and (C) are true but (A) is false.

A. Each pollen grain( male gametophyte) germinates further inside the ovule (Female gametophyte) and gives out a pollen tube.

B. The ovule are orthropous and remain exposed on the megasporophyll. Each ovule is surrounded by integuments. The female gametophyte contains archegonia.

C. Gymnosperms are heterosporous i.e., produce two different kinds of spores- the male microspores and the female megaspores.

So, the correct answer is '(B) and (C) are true but (A) is false'.