In which of the following male and female gametophyte have an independent free living existence ?

Options

A. Cedrus
B. Marchantia
C. Pinus
D. Pisum

Answer

To solve the question regarding which organism has male and female gametophytes that have an independent free-living existence, we can follow these steps:

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understanding Gametophytes**:
- Gametophytes are the sexual phase in the life cycle of plants, producing gametes (sperm and eggs). In some plants, these gametophytes can exist independently from the sporophyte (the asexual phase).

2. **Analyzing the Options**:
- **Option 1: Cedrus (Gymnosperms)**:
- In Cedrus, which is a type of gymnosperm, the male and female gametophytes are not independent. They are reduced and remain within the sporangia on the sporophyte. Therefore, this option is incorrect.

- **Option 2: Marchantia (Liverwort)**:
- Marchantia is a bryophyte where both male (antheridia) and female (archegonia) gametophytes are free-living and independent. They can exist separately from the sporophyte. This option is correct.

- **Option 3: Minulus**:
- In Minulus, the male and female gametophytes are also dependent on each other. This option is incorrect.

- **Option 4: Pisum (Pea Plant)**:
- In Pisum, the male and female gametophytes are also dependent on the sporophyte for their development. This option is incorrect.

3. **Conclusion**:
- After analyzing all the options, the only organism where both male and female gametophytes have an independent free-living existence is **Marchantia** (Option 2).

### Final Answer:
**Option 2: Marchantia**