Bryophytes differ from pteridophytes in

Options

A. Swimming antherozoids
B. An independent gametophyte
C. Archegonia
D. Lack of vascular tissue

Explanation

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Definition of Bryophytes and Pteridophytes**:
- Bryophytes are non-vascular plants that include mosses, liverworts, and hornworts. They are often referred to as the "amphibians of the plant kingdom" because they require water for reproduction.
- Pteridophytes are vascular plants that include ferns and their relatives. They have true roots, stems, and leaves.

2. **Reproductive Structures**:
- In bryophytes, the main body is the gametophyte, which produces male (antheridia) and female (archegonia) sex organs. Fertilization requires water, as the sperm must swim to the egg.
- In pteridophytes, the main body is the sporophyte, which produces gametophytes. The gametophytes are independent and can produce sperm and eggs without relying on the sporophyte.

3. **Dependency of Life Cycle Stages**:
- In bryophytes, the sporophyte is dependent on the gametophyte for nutrition and support, making it a parasite on the gametophyte.
- In pteridophytes, both the sporophyte and gametophyte are independent of each other.

4. **Vascular Tissue**:
- Bryophytes lack vascular tissues (xylem and phloem), which are essential for the transport of water and nutrients.
- Pteridophytes possess vascular tissues, allowing them to grow larger and thrive in a wider range of environments.

5. **Conclusion**:
- The primary difference between bryophytes and pteridophytes is the presence or absence of vascular tissue. Bryophytes do not have vascular tissue, while pteridophytes do.

### Final Answer:
Bryophytes differ from pteridophytes in their lack of vascular tissue.

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