Answer: Bryophytes represent an early stage where sporophyte has not yet become fully autotrophic and independent.
- A It is sometimes mistakenly thought to indicate bryophytes occupy a more advanced evolutionary position than ferns
- B Bryophytes represent an early stage where sporophyte has not yet become fully autotrophic and independent
- C It is sometimes mistakenly thought to indicate bryophytes never form a distinct sporophyte generation
- D It is sometimes mistakenly thought to indicate this dependency confers a net survival advantage over independent sporophytes
Correct answer: B. Bryophytes represent an early stage where sporophyte has not yet become fully autotrophic and independent
Explanation: In bryophytes, the sporophyte is partially dependent on the gametophyte (receives water and nutrients via haustoria). In pteridophytes and higher plants, the sporophyte is fully independent. This reflects the evolutionary trend toward sporophyte dominance.
Plants evolved from water-dependent algae through increasingly land-adapted groups, gaining vascular tissue (Pteridophyta), then seeds (Gymnosperms), and finally fruit-enclosed seeds (Angiosperms) - each step reducing dependence on water for reproduction.
Concept context
Classification of plants from algae to angiosperms. Understanding plant diversity is essential for NEET.