Gametophyte: It is a phenomenon found in the life-cycle of every plant, and some algae. It is one of the phases of alternation of generation. These alternate phases include Sporophyte or the multicellular diploid generation and Gametophyte or haploid generation.

Types of Gametophytes

• Archegonium: Archegonium is a multicellular female reproductive organ that produces eggs. This organ is similar to the ovary as it creates haploid egg cells.

• Antheridium: Antheridium is a multicellular testis-like male reproductive organ that helps in creating haploid sperm cells.

Examples of Gametophytes

Mosses: The gametophyte stage of moss is long-lived while sporophytes appear as long stalks that release spores by the wind. The sporophytes are formed by mixing the gametophyte sex cells. Therefore, they have twice the number of chromosomes compared to gametophytes.

Hornwort: The hornwort is green, long-lived and low to the ground, while the sporophyte is a thin, long stalk from which the spores are released.

Difference between Gametophytes and Sporophytes

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By Team Learning Mantras