Question

If a flowering plant were to acquire a mutation in a critical gene involved in the formation of microspores, which of the following would the plant not likely form?

A) Seeds
B) Flowers
C) Fruits
D) Roots

Answer 1

If a flowering plant had a mutation that affected microspore formation, it would not be able to form seeds, as microspores develop into pollen grains that are necessary for fertilization. The lack of a megasporangium would prevent the formation of eggs, while the absence of a microsporangium would stop the formation of sperm.

Step-by-step explanation:

If a flowering plant were to acquire a mutation in a critical gene involved in the formation of microspores, it would most likely be unable to form seeds. Microspores develop into male gametophytes, which produce pollen grains necessary for fertilization. Without these male gametophytes, the plant would not be able to fertilize the ovules, and hence, no seeds would be formed.

Regarding the specific question about the lack of a megasporangium or microsporangium, the gametes not formed would be as follows:

• If a flower lacked a megasporangium, it would not be able to form female gametophytes, which are necessary to produce eggs.
• If a flower lacked a microsporangium, it would not be able to form male gametophytes, which produce sperm via pollen grains.

Thus, the type of gamete not formed in the absence of a megasporangium would be the egg, and in the absence of a microsporangium, the sperm would not form.