Gametophyte in the pteridophytes(i) Small, inconspicuous.(ii) unicellu...
The correct answer is B: Three.
The spores germinate to give rise to inconspicuous, small but multicellular, free-living, mostly photosynthetic thalloid gametophytes called prothallus. These gametophytes require cool, damp, shady places to grow. Because of this specific restricted requirement and the need for water for fertilisation, the spread of living pteridophytes is limited and restricted to narrow geographical regions.
Therefore, three statements are correct regarding the gametophyte in pteridophytes.
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Gametophyte in the pteridophytes(i) Small, inconspicuous.(ii) unicellu...
Understanding Gametophytes in Pteridophytes
The gametophyte generation in pteridophytes, which includes ferns and their relatives, plays a crucial role in their life cycle. Let's analyze the statements regarding the gametophyte:
i) Small, inconspicuous
- This statement is correct.
- Gametophytes in pteridophytes are typically small and often overlooked, as they are much less conspicuous than the sporophyte generation.
ii) Unicellular
- This statement is incorrect.
- Gametophytes are generally multicellular structures, despite being small.
iii) Mostly photosynthetic thalloid
- This statement is correct.
- The gametophytes of many pteridophytes are thalloid and capable of photosynthesis, allowing them to sustain themselves and contribute to the ecosystem.
iv) Need water for fertilisation
- This statement is correct.
- Pteridophyte gametophytes require a moist environment for sperm to swim to the egg for fertilization, which is a characteristic of their reproductive cycle.
Summary of Correct Statements
- Based on the analysis:
- Statements i, iii, and iv are correct, making a total of three correct statements.
Thus, the correct answer to the question is option 'B', which states that three statements about the gametophytes in pteridophytes are accurate.