Select an incorrect statement for pteridophytes:

Options

A. They are frequently grown as ornamentals
B. Sporophytes bear sporangia that are subtended by leaf-like appendages called sporophylls
C. The sporangia produce spores by mitosis
D. Pteridophytes include horsetails and ferns.

Answer

To solve the question of selecting an incorrect statement for pteridophytes, we will analyze each statement provided and determine which one is false. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown:

### Step 1: Understand the Characteristics of Pteridophytes
Pteridophytes are vascular plants that reproduce via spores. They are primarily found in damp and shady environments. They do not produce flowers or seeds, which classifies them as cryptogams.

### Step 2: Analyze Each Statement
1. **Statement 1**: "They are frequently grown as ornamental."
- **Analysis**: This statement is correct. Pteridophytes, such as ferns, are often used for decorative purposes.

2. **Statement 2**: "The sporophyte bears the sporangia that are subtended by leaf-like appendages called sporophylls."
- **Analysis**: This statement is also correct. In pteridophytes, the sporophyte generation produces sporangia, which are often found on structures called sporophylls.

3. **Statement 3**: "The sporangia produced spores by mitosis."
- **Analysis**: This statement is incorrect. Sporangia in pteridophytes produce spores through meiosis, not mitosis.

4. **Statement 4**: "Pteridophytes include horsetails and ferns."
- **Analysis**: This statement is correct. Horsetails and ferns are both examples of pteridophytes.

### Step 3: Identify the Incorrect Statement
From the analysis above, the statement that is incorrect is: **"The sporangia produced spores by mitosis."** This is the answer to the question.

### Final Answer
The incorrect statement for pteridophytes is: **"The sporangia produced spores by mitosis."**

---