An anther with malfunctioning tapetum often fails of produce viable male gametophytes. Give one reason.

Explanation

To answer the question regarding why an anther with a malfunctioning tapetum fails to produce viable male gametophytes, we can break down the explanation into clear steps:

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understanding the Role of the Tapetum**: The tapetum is a layer of cells within the anther that plays a crucial role in the development of pollen grains.

2. **Nourishment of Pollen Grains**: The primary function of the tapetum is to provide nourishment to the developing pollen grains. It supplies essential nutrients and hormones that are vital for the proper development of these gametophytes.

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