Question

What is meant by prothallus?

Answer 1

Prothallus:

The prothallus is the gametophyte phase in the life cycle of ferns and other pteridophytes.

Characteristics of prothallus:

1. Prothallus refers to gametophytes of bog moss or liverwort.
2. It is a fungus that develops from germinated spores.
3. They are heart-shaped structures and are short-lived.
4. Their structure and appearance differ according to the species.
5. Some are colorless, whereas others are green and need photosynthesis to produce oxygen.
6. They have both male and female reproductive organs.
7. The male sex organ is known as antheridia, whereas the female sex organ is known as archegonia.
8. Antheridia's sperm combines with archegonia's egg, resulting in the development of a zygote.
9. Later on, the zygote matures into a multicellular sporophyte.