Question

First haploid cell of female gametophyte is

• A. Functional megaspore
• B. Microspore mother cell
• C. Megaspore mother cell
• D. None of the above.

Answer 1

The correct option is A Functional megaspore

Megaspore mother cell is developed inside the nucellus. It then undergoes meiotic division to form four haploid megaspores. Out of these four megaspores, three degenerate and only one remains functional. This functional megaspore then undergoes mitosis three times without cytoplasmic divisions which results in 8 nuclei in the megaspore. These 8 nuclei then get organized into egg apparatus (consisting of an egg cell and two synergids), a large central cell and three antipodal cells. This results in the formation of a 7-celled but 8-nucleate structure which is called the embryo sac or the female gametophyte.

Hence, the first haploid cell of female gametophyte is the functional megaspore which develops into female gametophyte or the embryo sac.

So, the correct answer is A.