Question

What is an operculum in the life cycle of mosses?

Answer 1

Mosses:

1. Mosses are bryophytes non-flowering green plants which produce spores.
2. Mosses have stems and leaves, but don't have true roots.
3. Example: Funaria, Polytrichum.

Operculum in the life cycle of mosses:

1. Mosses have a capsule for the storage of spores or sporangia.
2. The capsule has a lid like structure which is known as operculum.
3. The operculum pops off when the spores are matured.

Functions of operculum in the life cycle of mosses:

1. Operculum controls the release of spores over a long period of time.
2. Operculum helps in transporting water, minerals and nutrients.