Question

Difference between gametophyte and sporophytes

Answer 1

1. Definition:
- Gametophyte: The gametophyte is the haploid phase in the life cycle of plants and algae. It produces gametes (sex cells) through mitosis.
- Sporophyte: The sporophyte is the diploid phase in the life cycle of plants and algae. It produces spores through meiosis.

2. Ploidy level:
- Gametophyte: Gametophytes are haploid, meaning they have one set of chromosomes (n).
- Sporophyte: Sporophytes are diploid, meaning they have two sets of chromosomes (2n).

3. Reproduction:
- Gametophyte: Gametophytes produce gametes (sperm and egg cells) through mitosis. These gametes fuse during fertilization to form a zygote.
- Sporophyte: Sporophytes produce spores through meiosis. These spores germinate into new haploid individuals.

4. Size and structure:
- Gametophyte: Gametophytes are usually smaller and simpler in structure compared to sporophytes. They are often leaf-like or moss-like in appearance.
- Sporophyte: Sporophytes are typically larger and more complex in structure compared to gametophytes. They have roots, stems, and leaves for photosynthesis and reproduction.

5. Dominance in the life cycle:
- Gametophyte: In some plants (such as mosses and ferns), the gametophyte is the dominant phase in the life cycle. It is the photosynthetic, reproductive phase that produces gametes.
- Sporophyte: In most plants, the sporophyte is the dominant phase in the life cycle. It is the phase that is more long-lived and independent, producing spores for dispersal and eventually developing into a new plant.

Overall, gametophytes and sporophytes are distinct phases in the life cycle of plants and algae, with differences in ploidy level, reproduction, size and structure, and dominance in the life cycle.