In bryophytes, what is the dominant phase of life cycle?

Answer

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Understanding Bryophytes**: Bryophytes are a group of plants that include mosses and liverworts. They typically thrive in moist and shady environments.

2. **Life Cycle of Bryophytes**: Bryophytes exhibit a life cycle that includes two distinct phases: the haploid phase (gametophyte) and the diploid phase (sporophyte). This phenomenon is known as alternation of generations.

3. **Dominant Phase Identification**: In bryophytes, the main plant body is the gametophyte, which is haploid. This phase is independent and is responsible for producing gametes (sperm and egg).

4. **Gametogenesis**: The gametophyte produces male gametes (sperm) and female gametes (eggs). When these gametes fuse, they form a diploid zygote.

5. **Sporophyte Development**: The zygote develops into a sporophyte, which is diploid and dependent on the gametophyte for its nutrition and growth.

6. **Sporophyte Function**: The sporophyte undergoes meiosis to produce haploid spores, which will germinate and develop into new gametophytes, thus completing the life cycle.

7. **Conclusion**: The dominant phase of the life cycle in bryophytes is the gametophyte phase, which is haploid and independent.

---