Question

Consider the following statements regarding gymnosperms and choose the correct option.
(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. (A) and (C) are false but (B) is true.
• E. (B) and (C) are true but (A) is false.

Answer 1

Answer: (E)

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

In gymnosperms, plants are heterosporous, i.e, produce two kinds of spores; microspores (male) and megaspores (female). Microspore and megaspore germination is in situ, producing micro-and megagametophytes which are not autotrophic. Microspores have partly developed endosporic male gametophytes when they are transferred to micropyle of the ovule. The development of female gametophyte is monosporic. It is permanently retained inside the megaspore wall and dependent on parent sporophyte for its nutrition.

Hence the correct option is E.