[Campbell Biology P.679] If a fern species evolved the ability for its sperm to be dispersed... | Practice Question

If a fern species evolved the ability for its sperm to be dispersed by wind, how would this adaptation likely affect its life cycle and ecological distribution, based on the "WHAT IF?" scenario?

  • A: It would become more dependent on moist environments for reproduction.
  • B: The gametophyte generation would become the dominant stage.
  • C: It could potentially colonize drier terrestrial environments more effectively.
  • D: Meiosis would no longer be necessary for spore production.

Explanation

The text states that fern sperm use flagella to swim to eggs, implying a reliance on water. If sperm could be dispersed by wind, this water dependency for fertilization would be removed, allowing the fern to reproduce in drier conditions and thus expand its ecological range into less moist terrestrial environments. This is a significant evolutionary step seen in seed plants.