Which is characteristic feature of gymnosperms

Options

A. Gymnosperms are homosporous
B. The female and male gametophytes do not have independent free living existence
C. Sporophyte is dependent on gametophyte
D. The ovules are enclosed by ovary

Answer

**Step-by-Step Text Solution:**

1. **Understanding Gymnosperms**: Gymnosperms are a group of seed-producing plants that include conifers, cycads, Ginkgo, and gnetophytes. They are characterized by having seeds that are not enclosed in an ovary, which distinguishes them from angiosperms.

2. **Analyzing the Options**:
- **Option A**: "Gymnosperms are homosporous." This statement is incorrect. Gymnosperms are heterosporous, meaning they produce two types of spores: microspores (male) and megaspores (female).
- **Option B**: "Female and male gametophyte do not have independent free living existence." This statement is correct. In gymnosperms, the gametophytes are dependent on the sporophyte and do not live independently.
- **Option C**: "Sporophyte is dependent on the gametophyte." This statement is incorrect. In gymnosperms, the gametophyte is dependent on the sporophyte for nutrition and support.
- **Option D**: "Ovules are enclosed by ovary." This statement is also incorrect. In gymnosperms, ovules are exposed and not enclosed within an ovary.

3. **Conclusion**: The correct characteristic feature of gymnosperms is found in Option B, which states that the female and male gametophytes do not have independent free living existence.

**Final Answer**: The characteristic feature of gymnosperms is that the female and male gametophytes do not have independent free living existence (Option B).

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