Select incorrect statement w.r.t characters of true moss

Options

A. Multicelled branched rhizoids
B. Presence of scales
C. Presence of protonema
D. Erect leafy axis as mature gametophyte

Answer

To solve the question of selecting the incorrect statement with respect to the characters of true moss, we can follow these steps:

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understand True Mosses**: True mosses are classified as bryophytes, which are non-vascular plants. They typically grow in moist environments and have distinct characteristics.

2. **Identify Key Characteristics**:
- True mosses are generally 1 to 10 cm tall.
- They have a carpet-like structure.
- Their life cycle includes a filamentous structure called protonema.
- They attach to the substrate using structures called rhizoids, which are multicellular and branched.
- The life cycle of true mosses is dominated by the gametophyte stage.

3. **Analyze the Options**:
- **Option A**: "They are multi-celled branched rhizoids."
- This statement is correct as true mosses do have multicellular branched rhizoids.
- **Option B**: "They have presence of scales."
- This statement is incorrect because true mosses do not possess scales.
- **Option C**: "They have presence of protonema."
- This statement is correct; true mosses do have protonema in their life cycle.
- **Option D**: "The erect leafy exists as mature gametophyte."
- This statement is also correct as the leafy structure is indeed the mature gametophyte of true mosses.

4. **Select the Incorrect Statement**: Based on the analysis, the incorrect statement is **Option B**: "They have presence of scales."

### Final Answer:
The incorrect statement with respect to the characters of true moss is **Option B**.

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