Select an incorrect statement for gymnosperms

Options

A. Gymnosperms are heterosporous
B. Sporangia are borne on sporophylls
C. Development of pollen grains take place within the microsporangia
D. Microspores develop into a male gametophytic generation which is highly developed

Answer

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understanding Gymnosperms**: Gymnosperms are a group of seed-producing plants that bear naked seeds. This means that their seeds are not enclosed in an ovary wall.

2. **Characteristics of Gymnosperms**:
- They are perennial, meaning they live for more than two years.
- They are evergreen, retaining their leaves throughout the year.
- They are woody plants.
- Gymnosperms are heterosporous, producing two types of spores: microspores and megaspores.

3. **Sporangia and Sporophylls**:
- Sporangia, which are the structures that produce spores, are borne on specialized leaves called sporophylls.

4. **Microspores and Pollen Grains**:
- Microspores develop into male gametophytes, which are represented by pollen grains.
- It is important to note that the male gametophyte is highly reduced, meaning it consists of a limited number of cells.

5. **Analyzing the Options**:
- **Option 1**: "Gymnosperms are heterosporous." - This statement is true.
- **Option 2**: "Sporangia are born on sporophylls." - This statement is also true.
- **Option 3**: "Development of pollen grains takes place within the microsporangia." - This statement is true as well.
- **Option 4**: "Microspores develop into a male gametophytic generation which is highly developed." - This statement is incorrect because the male gametophyte is highly reduced, not developed.

6. **Conclusion**: The incorrect statement regarding gymnosperms is **Option 4**, which states that microspores develop into a male gametophytic generation that is highly developed.