Bryophytes are not characterised by

Options

A. sporophyte parasitic over gametophyte
B. independent gametophyte
C. absence of vascular tissues
D. independent sporophyte

Answer

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understanding Bryophytes**: Bryophytes are a group of non-vascular plants that include mosses, liverworts, and hornworts. They are often referred to as the amphibians of the plant kingdom because they require water for reproduction.

2. **Dominant Phase**: In bryophytes, the dominant phase of the life cycle is the gametophyte phase, which is haploid (n). This phase is responsible for producing gametes (sperm and eggs).

3. **Sporophyte Dependency**: The sporophyte phase (diploid, 2n) of bryophytes is not independent; it is dependent on the gametophyte for nourishment. The sporophyte is attached to the gametophyte and derives its nutrients from it, making it parasitic over the gametophyte.

4. **Absence of Vascular Tissue**: Bryophytes lack vascular tissues (xylem and phloem), which are present in higher plants. This absence is a characteristic feature of bryophytes, making them less efficient in transporting water and nutrients.

5. **Evaluating the Options**:
- **Sporophytes**: Correctly characterized as dependent on the gametophyte.
- **Parasitic over Gametophyte**: Correctly characterized as the sporophyte is dependent on the gametophyte.
- **Independent Gametophyte**: Correctly characterized as the gametophyte is independent and photosynthetic.
- **Absence of Vascular Tissue**: Correctly characterized as bryophytes lack vascular tissues.
- **Independent Sporophyte**: This is incorrect because the sporophyte is not independent; it relies on the gametophyte for sustenance.

6. **Conclusion**: The statement that bryophytes are characterized by an "Independent Sporophyte" is false. Therefore, this is the correct answer to the question.

### Final Answer:
Bryophytes are not characterized by an **Independent Sporophyte**.

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