In gymnosperms, the male and the female gametophytes do not have an independent free-living existence. (True/False)

Answer

To determine whether the statement "In gymnosperms, the male and female gametophytes do not have an independent free-living existence" is true or false, we can analyze the characteristics of gymnosperms and their reproductive structures.

### Step-by-Step 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 (unlike angiosperms).

2. **Gametophyte Generation**: In the life cycle of gymnosperms, there are two generations: the sporophyte (the dominant, diploid generation) and the gametophyte (the haploid generation). The gametophytes develop from spores.

3. **Male Gametophyte**: The male gametophyte in gymnosperms is represented by pollen grains. These pollen grains are produced in the male cones (or strobili) and do not exist independently; they are dependent on the sporophyte for their development.

4. **Female Gametophyte**: The female gametophyte develops within the ovule, which is located in the female cones. Similar to the male gametophyte, the female gametophyte does not have an independent existence outside of the ovule.

5. **Conclusion**: Since both the male and female gametophytes are retained within the sporangia (pollen sacs for males and ovules for females) and do not exist freely in the environment, the statement is indeed true.

### Final Answer:
The statement is **True**.

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