Question

Describe the structure of pteris prothallus.

Answer 1

The spore of Pteris develops to form the gametophyte. After the process of germination, the spore develops to form prothallial cell and the rhizoid. The prothallial cell divides to form the filament-like structure which has an apical cell. The apical cell divides and forms a structure of small prothallus. The cells mature and result in the formation of a prothallus which is flat and dorsiventral in shape. There is single layer of cells at the margin and thicker layers towards the centre. There is an apical notch. The rhizoids are present on the ventral surface. The antheridium develops near the central region and the archegonium develops near the notch.