Question

Which one of the following is Heterosporous?

• A. Adiantum
• B. Salvinia
• C. Dryopteris
• D. Equisetum

Answer 1

The correct option is B

Salvinia

The correct option is B.
The explanation for the correct option :

1. Plants that produce spores have varied structures, sizes, and functions.
2. They generate two types of spores: microspores and megaspores.
3. Most pteridophytes are homosporous, meaning they generate just one type of spore.
4. Salvinia is a heterosporous pteridophyte because it produces two types of spores: microspores and megaspores.
5. Microspores are small spores that give rise to male gametophytes following germination, whereas megaspores are big spores that give rise to the female gametophyte.

The explanation for the incorrect option:

Option A:

Adiantum produces only one type of spore. Hence, it is homosporous.

Option C:

Dryopteris produces only one type of haploid spore, which is homosporous.

Option D:

Equisetum produces only one kind of spore is produced, and hence it is also a homosporous pteridophyte.

Final answer: Salvinia is Heterosporous.