Question

The gametophyte is not an independent, free-living generation in?

• A. Pinus
• B. Marchantia
• C. Adiantum
• D. Polytrichum

Answer 1

The correct option is A

Pinus

The correct option is A.

Explanation of correct option:

1. A gametophyte is the phase of the life cycle in which the gametes (i.e. the eggs and sperms) are produced.
2. In gymnosperms like Pinus, the female and male gametophytes do not have a free life and an independent existence.
3. In gymnosperms, the female gametophyte resides within the megasporangium and the male gametophyte resides within the microsporangium.

Explanation of incorrect options:

Option B:

1. In bryophytes like Marchantia, the gametophyte is independent and free-living.
2. In bryophytes, fertilization is dependent on water for the transfer of sperm to the egg, and the gametophytes are fertilized outside the body.

Option C:

1. In pteridophytes like Adiantum, gametophytes are similar to the bryophyte of gametophytes, i.e., they are independent and free living.
2. In pteridophytes, the gametophytes are fertilized outside the body with the help of water. Water helps in the transfer of sperm to the egg.

Option D:

1. In bryophytes like Polytrichum, fertilization depends on water for the transfer of sperm to the egg, and gametophytes are fertilized outside the body.
2. So, the gametophyte for bryophytes is free living and independent.

Final answer: The gametophyte is not an independent, free-living generation in Pinus.