Male and female gametophytes are independent and free-living in

Options

A. Mustard
B. Castor
C. Pinus
D. Sphagnum

Answer

To solve the question regarding which organism has male and female gametophytes that are independent and free-living, we can follow these steps:

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understand the Terms**:
- Male and female gametophytes are the structures that produce male and female gametes, respectively. In some plant groups, these gametophytes can exist independently of the sporophyte (the diploid generation).

2. **Identify the Plant Groups**:
- Bryophytes (like mosses) and pteridophytes (like ferns) are known for having independent and free-living gametophytes. In contrast, gymnosperms and angiosperms (flowering plants) typically have gametophytes that are dependent on the sporophyte.

3. **Analyze the Options**:
- **Mustard**: This is an angiosperm. In angiosperms, the male and female gametophytes are not free-living; they develop within the flowers. Thus, this option is incorrect.
- **Castor**: This is also an angiosperm. Similar to mustard, castor does not have free-living gametophytes. This option is also incorrect.
- **Pinus**: This is a gymnosperm. In gymnosperms, the gametophytes are retained within the sporangia and are not free-living. Therefore, this option is incorrect as well.
- **Sphagnum**: This is a type of moss, which belongs to the bryophyte group. In bryophytes, both male and female gametophytes are independent and free-living. Thus, this option is correct.

4. **Conclusion**:
- The correct answer is **Sphagnum**, as it is the only option where both male and female gametophytes are independent and free-living.

### Final Answer:
The correct option is **Sphagnum**.

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