Answer: Dominant sporophyte; diplontic.
- A Dominant gametophyte; haplontic
- B Dominant sporophyte; diplontic
- C Equal gametophyte and sporophyte; diplohaplontic
- D Dominant sporophyte; haplodiplontic
Correct answer: B. Dominant sporophyte; diplontic
Explanation: Fucus shows a diplontic life cycle where the diploid sporophyte is dominant. It does NOT have a free-living gametophyte. Meiosis occurs directly to produce gametes.
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.