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Multiple Choice
Which of the following characteristics is found in heterosporous plants?
A
Lack of vascular tissue
B
Production of two distinct types of spores
C
Dominance of the gametophyte generation
D
Presence of a single type of spore
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the concept of heterospory: Heterosporous plants produce two distinct types of spores, which are microspores and megaspores. This is a key characteristic that differentiates them from homosporous plants, which produce only one type of spore.
Identify the types of spores: Microspores develop into male gametophytes, while megaspores develop into female gametophytes. This differentiation is crucial for sexual reproduction in heterosporous plants.
Recognize the role of vascular tissue: Heterosporous plants typically have vascular tissue, which helps in the transport of water and nutrients. The presence or absence of vascular tissue is not directly related to heterospory.
Consider the dominance of generations: In heterosporous plants, the sporophyte generation is usually dominant, meaning it is the larger and longer-lived phase of the plant's life cycle. This contrasts with the gametophyte dominance seen in some non-vascular plants.
Distinguish between spore types: The presence of a single type of spore is characteristic of homosporous plants, not heterosporous plants. Therefore, heterosporous plants are defined by the production of two distinct types of spores.