[Campbell Biology P.674] Which of the following statements accurately describes the dependen... | Practice Question

Which of the following statements accurately describes the dependency of a bryophyte sporophyte?

  • A: It is fully independent and photosynthetic, providing all its own nutrients.
  • B: It is semi-independent, absorbing water and minerals from the soil while producing its own sugars.
  • C: It remains attached to its parental gametophyte and relies on it for all nutrient supplies.
  • D: It is dependent on the gametophyte only for initial development, becoming independent later.

Explanation

The text states: 'A bryophyte sporophyte remains attached to its parental gametophyte throughout the sporophyte's lifetime, dependent on the gametophyte for supplies of sugars, amino acids, minerals, and water.' This clearly indicates full dependency.