Which one of the following is a correct statement regarding the plant groups

Options

A. Antheridiophores and archegoniophores are present in pteriodophytes
B. Origin of seed habit can be traced in pteridophytes
C. Pteriodphytes gametophyte has a protonemal and leafy stage
D. In gymnosperms female gametophyte is free living

Answer

To determine which statement regarding plant groups is correct, we will analyze each option provided in the question.

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understanding the Terms**:
- **Anthrediophores and Archegoniophores**: These are specialized structures found in certain plant groups. Anthrediophores bear antheridia (male gametes), while archegoniophores bear archegonia (female gametes).
- **Pteridophytes**: This group includes ferns and their relatives, which reproduce via spores.
- **Bryophytes**: This group includes mosses and liverworts, which have gametophyte-dominant life cycles.

2. **Analyzing the First Statement**:
- The first statement claims that anthrediophores and archegoniophores are present in pteridophytes. This is incorrect because these structures are characteristic of bryophytes, not pteridophytes.

3. **Analyzing the Second Statement**:
- The second statement suggests that the origin of seed habits can be traced in pteridophytes. This is true because certain pteridophytes, like Selaginella and Salvinia, exhibit heterospory (the production of two types of spores: microspores and megaspores), which is a precursor to seed formation. Therefore, this statement is correct.

4. **Analyzing the Third Statement**:
- The third statement indicates that pteridophyte gametophytes are in the form of protonema and leafy stages. This is incorrect because the gametophyte in pteridophytes is called a prothallus, while the protonema and leafy stages are found in mosses (a type of bryophyte).

5. **Analyzing the Fourth Statement**:
- The fourth statement claims that in gymnosperms, the female gametophyte is free-living. This is incorrect because in gymnosperms, the female gametophyte is not independent; it develops within the ovule and is dependent on the sporophyte.

6. **Conclusion**:
- After analyzing all statements, the second statement is the only correct one. Thus, the correct answer is option 2.

### Final Answer:
The correct statement regarding the plant groups is: **The origin of seed habits can be traced in pteridophytes.**

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