Understanding Gametophyte and Sporophyte – Key Differences
In plants, reproduction involves alternating phases called the gametophyte and sporophyte. This cycle is called alternation of generations. While both stages are crucial, they differ in their function, structure, and genetic makeup.
Understanding the difference between gametophyte and sporophyte helps in grasping plant biology and reproduction. Let’s explore each stage in detail.
Gametophyte
The gametophyte is a plant’s haploid (n) generation. It produces gametes (sperm and eggs) through mitosis. Gametophytes are more visible and dominant in simpler plants, like mosses and liverworts.
Sporophyte
The sporophyte represents a plant’s diploid (2n) generation. It produces spores through meiosis. Sporophytes develop from fertilised eggs and eventually produce spores to start new gametophytes.
Key Differences – Gametophyte vs Sporophyte
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FAQs on Difference Between Gametophyte and Sporophyte | NEET
1. What is the main difference between gametophyte and sporophyte?
The gametophyte is haploid (produces gametes), whereas the sporophyte is diploid and produces spores.
2. Which generation is dominant in mosses?
In mosses, the gametophyte is the dominant generation.
3. Which generation is dominant in flowering plants (angiosperms)?
The sporophyte generation is dominant in flowering plants.
4. What does haploid and diploid mean in gametophytes and sporophytes?
Haploid means having one set of chromosomes (gametophyte), and diploid means having two sets (sporophyte).
5. Do gametophytes produce spores?
In higher plants, the gametophyte’s role is reduced, making it smaller and often dependent on the sporophyte.
6. Are gametophytes always dependent on sporophytes?
Not always. In mosses, gametophytes are dominant and independent. In flowering plants, they depend on sporophytes.
7. What is the significance of the alternation of generations?
Alternation of generations helps plants maintain genetic diversity and adapt to changing environments.
8. Do both gametophyte and sporophyte produce spores?
Only sporophytes produce spores; gametophytes produce gametes (egg and sperm).
9. Is gametophyte haploid or diploid?
Gametophyte is haploid, containing a single set of chromosomes (n).
10. Can sporophytes exist without gametophytes?
No, sporophytes originate from fertilised eggs produced by gametophytes; both generations rely on each other in the plant life cycle.
