The development of Funaria gametophyte always initiated from protonema.

Explanation:

Protonema is the first stage in the life cycle of mosses, such as Funaria. It is a thread-like structure composed of branched, filamentous cells. The development of the Funaria gametophyte begins from the protonema stage.

Life cycle of Funaria:

1. Spore germination: The life cycle of Funaria starts with the germination of spores. The spores are released from the capsule of the sporophyte.

2. Protonema formation: The spores germinate and develop into a filamentous structure called the protonema. The protonema is usually green in color and consists of thin, elongated cells.

3. Protonema growth: The protonema grows and branches extensively, forming a mat-like structure on the substrate. It provides a suitable environment for the further development of the gametophyte.

4. Gametophyte development: From the protonema, buds develop, which eventually become the mature gametophyte of Funaria. The gametophyte consists of leafy shoots with rhizoids for anchorage and water absorption.

5. Sexual reproduction: The gametophyte produces both male and female reproductive structures. The male reproductive structure, called antheridium, produces sperm cells. The female reproductive structure, called archegonium, produces egg cells.

6. Fertilization: The sperm cells are released from the antheridium and swim through a thin film of water to reach the archegonium. Fertilization occurs when a sperm cell fuses with an egg cell inside the archegonium.

7. Embryo development: After fertilization, the zygote develops into a multicellular structure called the sporophyte. The sporophyte remains attached to the gametophyte and is dependent on it for nutrition.

8. Capsule formation: The sporophyte grows and develops a capsule at its tip. Within the capsule, spore mother cells undergo meiosis to produce haploid spores.

9. Spore release: When the spores are mature, the capsule opens and releases the spores, completing the life cycle of Funaria.

In conclusion, the development of the Funaria gametophyte is initiated from the protonema stage, which is the first stage after spore germination. The protonema provides a suitable environment for the growth and development of the gametophyte, leading to the formation of antheridia, archegonia, fertilization, and subsequent sporophyte development.