Bryophytes are not characterized by

Options

A. Sporophyte parasitic over gametophyte
B. Independent gametophyte
C. Absence of vascular tissues
D. Independent sporophyte

Answer

To solve the question "Bryophytes are not characterized by," we need to analyze the characteristics of bryophytes and identify which option does not apply to them. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of the solution:

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understand Bryophytes**: Bryophytes are non-vascular plants that include mosses, liverworts, and hornworts. They are characterized by their life cycle, which includes both a gametophyte and a sporophyte stage.

2. **Identify the Options**: The options given are:
- A) Sporophyte
- B) Parasitic over gametophyte
- C) Independent gametophyte
- D) Absence of vascular tissue
- E) Independent sporophyte

3. **Analyze Each Option**:
- **A) Sporophyte**: Bryophytes do have a sporophyte stage, but it is dependent on the gametophyte. This option is a characteristic feature.
- **B) Parasitic over gametophyte**: This statement is somewhat misleading. While the sporophyte is dependent on the gametophyte, it is not typically described as parasitic. However, this is still a characteristic feature.
- **C) Independent gametophyte**: The gametophyte in bryophytes is indeed independent and is the dominant phase of their life cycle. This is a characteristic feature.
- **D) Absence of vascular tissue**: Bryophytes lack true vascular tissues (xylem and phloem), which is a defining characteristic of this group.
- **E) Independent sporophyte**: This is the key option. In bryophytes, the sporophyte is not independent; it is dependent on the gametophyte for nutrition and support. Therefore, this statement is incorrect regarding bryophytes.

4. **Conclusion**: The option that is not a characteristic feature of bryophytes is **E) Independent sporophyte**.

### Final Answer:
Bryophytes are not characterized by **E) Independent sporophyte**.

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