Meiosis occurs in ferns at the time of formation of

Options

A. Spores
B. Gametes
C. Protonema
D. Prothallus

Answer

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Understanding the Life Cycle of Ferns:**
- Ferns have a complex life cycle that includes two main phases: the sporophyte (diploid) phase and the gametophyte (haploid) phase.

2. **Identifying the Sporophyte Phase:**
- The mature fern plant is known as the sporophyte. This is the dominant phase in ferns.

3. **Formation of Sporangia:**
- Within the sporophyte, specialized structures called sporangia are formed. These sporangia are responsible for producing spores.

4. **Meiosis Occurs:**
- Inside the sporangia, meiosis takes place. This is a crucial step where diploid cells undergo meiosis to produce haploid spores.

5. **Resulting Spores:**
- The result of meiosis is the formation of haploid spores. These spores are released from the sporangia and can develop into the gametophyte generation.

6. **Conclusion:**
- Therefore, meiosis in ferns occurs at the time of the formation of spores. The correct answer to the question is "spores."

**Final Answer:**
Meiosis occurs in ferns at the time of formation of **spores**.

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