Answer: A protonema.
- A A prothallus
- B A rhizome
- C A thallus
- D A protonema
Correct answer: D. A protonema
Explanation: A moss spore first grows into a filamentous protonema, from which the leafy gametophyte buds arise.
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.