Question

Assertion A: The first stage of gametophyte in the life cycle of moss is protonema stage.

Reason R: Protonema develops directly from spores produced in capsule.

In the light of the above statements, choose the most appropriate answer from the options given below:

Options

• Both A and R are correct but R is NOT the correct explanation of A.

• A is correct but R is not correct.

• A is not correct but R is correct.

• Both A and R are correct and R is the correct explanation of A.

Answer 1

Both A and R are correct and R is the correct explanation of A.

Explanation:

The moss life cycle commences when the operculum (capsule lid) degrades, allowing spores to be released. Once a spore germinates, it first develops into a branching, thread-like structure called a protonema, which eventually gives rise to the mature leafy gametophyte.