Question

Bryophytes form a monophyletic group that transitions between green algae and vascular plants. Describe at least one similarity and one difference between bryophyte reproduction and green algae reproduction.

a) Similarity: Both have multicellular reproductive structures.
Difference: Bryophytes produce spores, whereas green algae have motile gametes.
b) Similarity: Both undergo alternation of generations.
Difference: Green algae have specialized reproductive cells, while bryophytes lack them.
c) Similarity: Both require water for reproduction.
Difference: Green algae reproduce asexually, whereas bryophytes reproduce sexually.
d) Similarity: Both have flagellated sperm.
Difference: Bryophytes exhibit external fertilization, while green algae have internal fertilization.

Answer 1

Bryophytes and green algae both require water for fertilization and have flagellated sperm, indicating their aquatic ancestry. However, bryophytes possess a multicellular sporangium for spore production, while green algae may reproduce asexually, reflecting an evolutionary divergence.

Step-by-step explanation:

The student's question about the similarities and differences in reproduction between bryophytes and green algae touches on the transition of life from water to land. While both bryophytes and green algae exhibit certain reproductive similarities, there are key differences that highlight their evolutionary paths.

Similarity: Both bryophytes and green algae require water for successful fertilization; specifically, they both have flagellated sperm that must swim to the female gametes. This water dependence signifies their common ancestor and the initial stage of plant life transitioning to terrestrial environments.

Difference: A significant difference between bryophyte and green algae reproduction is seen in the structures of their life cycles. Bryophytes have a multicellular reproductive structure known as the sporangium where meiosis occurs to produce spores. In contrast, while some green algae exhibit alternation of generations, many reproduce asexually as well. This showcases the more advanced adaptations that bryophytes have evolved in their transition to land-based life, indicating their closer relation to modern land plants.