[Campbell Biology P.686] According to Figure 30.2, which statement accurately describes the ... | Practice Question

According to Figure 30.2, which statement accurately describes the gametophyte and sporophyte generations in different plant groups?

  • A: In mosses and other nonvascular plants, the sporophyte is dominant and independent.
  • B: Ferns and other seedless vascular plants have a dominant gametophyte that is dependent on the sporophyte.
  • C: In seed plants (gymnosperms and angiosperms), the sporophyte is dominant, and the gametophyte is reduced and dependent on it.
  • D: The gametophyte generation is always dominant across all plant groups for successful reproduction.

Explanation

Figure 30.2 clearly illustrates the evolutionary trend: mosses have a dominant gametophyte, ferns have a dominant sporophyte with an independent gametophyte, and seed plants have a dominant sporophyte with a reduced, dependent gametophyte. Option C accurately reflects the characteristics of seed plants.