Tag: examples of bryophytes

Moss gametophytes are either erect or extensively branched prostrate plants, that consist of an axis (commonly called a stem) bearing spirally arranged leaf-like appendages (usually referred to as leaves); more often than not, they are anchored to the substratum by branched multicellular filaments called rhizoids. The leafy shoot of mosses is haploid and thus part of the gametophyte generation. Liverworts and Hornworts have dorsiventrally flattened plant body. 

Ferns and moss are both examples of primitive plants. They are flowerless or seedless plants. Fern and Funaria both are flowerless and seedless.

In Funaria, the spore germinates to form a protonema (a filamentous structure) before developing into the leafy gametophore, which is considered indirect germination.

Funaria (a moss) produces a protonema stage in its life cycle, whereas Marchantia (a liverwort) does not.

Sporophyte of moss differentiates into foot, seta and capsule. The foot embedded in the female receptacle and absorbs inorganic nutrients. Seta is a long stalk with a pear-shaped capsule by its tip. Capsule has 3 parts-basal apophysis, central theca and terminal operculum.

The zygote, which develops into the sporophyte, is formed and begins its development within the venter of the archegonium.

Funaria is a bryophyte and lacks true vascular tissues, including true roots, stems, and leaves. Pteridium is a pteridophyte and possesses true roots.

The capsule of the Funaria sporophyte contains an apophysis region which possesses stomata for gas exchange.