Question

Which of the following ferns also show heterospory apart from Selaginella?
1. Salvinia
2. Psilotum
3. Adiantum
4. Pteris

Answer 1

Correct Answer - Option 1 : Salvinia

Concept:

• Spores are small reproductive cells that are used as agents of asexual reproduction. This germination produces the entire organism. Spores are produced by bacteria, fungi, algae, and plants.
• If the same type of spores is produced then it is called Homospory and if different types of spores are produced then it is called Heterospory.

Explanation:

• Heterospory - When there is a production of different types of spores in a single plant, this condition is called heterospory. The structure, formation, and functions of these spores differ.
• In pteridophytes, two different types of spores are present called Microspores and Megaspores.
• Microspores are male spores that are smaller in size and larger in number. Microspores are produced in Microsporangium.
• Megaspores are the female spores that are larger in size and smaller in number. Megaspores are produced in Megasporangium, these spores on germination produce the female gametophyte
• Heterospory in pteriodophytes is shown by Selaginella, Isoetes, Marsilea, Salvinia, Azolla, Pilularia, etc.
• Psilotum, Adiantum, and Pteris are Homosporous.