In pteridophytes, a spore germinates to produce

Options

A. sporophytes
B. sprogonium
C. prothallus
D. microsporophyll

Explanation

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Understanding Pteridophytes**: Pteridophytes are a group of vascular plants that reproduce via spores. They include ferns and their relatives.

2. **Spore Formation**: In pteridophytes, the process begins with a spore mother cell (sporocyte) that undergoes meiosis. This reductional division results in the formation of haploid spores.

3. **Germination of Spores**: Once the spores are formed, they can germinate under suitable conditions. Germination involves the spore absorbing water and beginning to grow.

4. **Formation of Gametophyte**: The germination of the spore leads to the development of a green haploid structure known as the gametophyte. In pteridophytes, this gametophyte is specifically called a prothallus.

5. **Characteristics of Prothallus**: The prothallus is a small, heart-shaped structure that is photosynthetic and contains both male and female reproductive organs. It is described as monoecious because it has both antheridia (male organs) and archegonia (female organs).

6. **Conclusion**: Therefore, in pteridophytes, when a spore germinates, it produces a prothallus, which is the gametophytic stage of the plant.

**Final Answer**: In pteridophytes, a spore germinates to produce a prothallus.

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