Which is CORRECT for the ferm Dryopteris ?

Options

A. Sporophyte is partially dependent on gametophyte
B. Sporophyte is independent
C. Gametophyte is independent
D. Both (B) and (C)

Answer

To solve the question regarding Dryopteris, we need to analyze the life cycle of ferns, particularly focusing on the relationship between the sporophyte and gametophyte stages.

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understanding the Life Cycle of Ferns**:
- Ferns, including Dryopteris, exhibit a life cycle that alternates between two phases: the sporophyte and the gametophyte.

2. **Identifying the Dominant Phase**:
- In ferns, the sporophyte phase is the dominant and more complex stage. It is the phase that we typically recognize as the fern plant itself.

3. **Sporophyte Independence**:
- The sporophyte in ferns is independent and does not rely on the gametophyte for nutrition or support. This is a key characteristic that distinguishes ferns from bryophytes, where the sporophyte is dependent on the gametophyte.

4. **Gametophyte Characteristics**:
- The gametophyte, which develops from spores produced by the sporophyte, is small, multicellular, and free-living. It is known as the prothallus and is capable of photosynthesis.

5. **Correct Statements**:
- From the analysis, we can conclude that:
- The sporophyte is independent (Statement B).
- The gametophyte is also independent (Statement C).
- Therefore, both statements B and C are correct.

6. **Final Answer**:
- The correct option is "Both B and C".