Answer: Production of two types of spores (microspores and megaspores).
- A Bearing two structurally distinct leaf types on the same sporophyte plant
- B Production of two types of spores (microspores and megaspores)
- C Developing two anatomically distinct root types from the same embryo
- D Alternating growth between an aquatic habitat and a terrestrial habitat
Correct answer: B. Production of two types of spores (microspores and megaspores)
Explanation: Heterospory: production of two kinds of spores. Microspores develop into male gametophytes; megaspores into female gametophytes. Examples: Selaginella, Marsilea. It is an evolutionary step toward seed habit.
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.