Archegonium of Funaria secretes mucilage rich in

Options

A. (a) sucrose
B. (b) malic acid
C. (c) glucose
D. (d) citric acid

Answer

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Understanding Funaria**: Funaria is a genus of mosses that belongs to the division Bryophyta. Bryophytes are non-vascular plants that are typically haploid in nature.

2. **Identifying the Sex Organs**: In Funaria, the female sex organ is called the archegonium, while the male sex organ is called the antheridium. The archegonium is responsible for producing eggs.

3. **Function of Archegonium**: The archegonium secretes a mucilage, which plays a crucial role in reproduction. This mucilage serves to attract sperm produced by the antheridium.

4. **Composition of Mucilage**: The mucilage secreted by the archegonium is rich in certain sugars. Specifically, it is known to be rich in sucrose.

5. **Role of Sucrose**: The mucilage, being sticky and rich in sucrose, helps in the absorption of water, which is essential for the movement of sperm towards the archegonium. This is vital for successful fertilization.

6. **Conclusion**: Based on the information gathered, the correct answer to the question is that the archegonium of Funaria secretes mucilage rich in sucrose.

**Final Answer**: Sucrose.

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