In gymnosperms, reduced male gametophyte is called

Options

A. ovule
B. zygote
C. embryo
D. pollen grain

Answer

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Understanding Gymnosperms**: Gymnosperms are a group of seed-producing plants that have seeds that are not enclosed in an ovary (naked seeds). This is a key characteristic that distinguishes them from angiosperms (flowering plants).

2. **Identifying Male Gametophyte**: In gymnosperms, the male gametophyte develops from microspores. The male gametophyte is responsible for producing male gametes (sperm).

3. **Microspores and Male Gametophyte**: The microspores are produced in the male cones (also known as microstrobili). Each microspore undergoes mitosis to develop into the male gametophyte.

4. **Reduction of Male Gametophyte**: The male gametophyte in gymnosperms is highly reduced compared to that in other plant groups. This reduction is significant for adaptation and efficiency.

5. **Final Identification**: The highly reduced male gametophyte in gymnosperms is specifically known as **pollen grains**. Pollen grains are the structures that carry the male gametes to the female gametophyte for fertilization.

**Answer**: The reduced male gametophyte in gymnosperms is called **pollen grains**.

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