Gametophytes

Definition

Gametophytes are the haploid phase in the life cycle of plants and algae that undergo alternation of generations. They produce gametes (sperm and eggs) through mitosis.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Gametophytes develop from spores produced by the sporophyte generation.
2. They are haploid, meaning they contain one set of chromosomes.
3. In seed plants, gametophytes are highly reduced and dependent on the sporophyte.
4. Male gametophytes produce sperm cells, while female gametophytes produce egg cells.
5. Fertilization of gametes results in a diploid zygote that develops into a new sporophyte.

Review Questions

Related terms

sporophyte:

The diploid phase in the plant life cycle that produces haploid spores through meiosis.

haploid:

A cell or organism having a single set of chromosomes.

alternation of generations:

A life cycle in which there is both a multicellular diploid form (the sporophyte) and a multicellular haploid form (the gametophyte).