Megasporophylls

Definition

Megasporophylls are specialized leaves that bear megasporangia, which produce megaspores. In seed plants, they are often part of the structure that forms ovules.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Megasporophylls are involved in the production of female gametophytes.
2. In angiosperms, megasporophylls are commonly referred to as carpels.
3. The megaspores produced by megasporophylls undergo meiosis to form female gametophytes.
4. Conifers possess cone scales that function as megasporophylls.
5. Megasporophyll development is crucial for successful plant reproduction and seed formation.

Review Questions

Related terms

Microsporophyll: A leaf-like structure that bears microsporangia, producing microspores which develop into male gametophytes.

Carpel: The female reproductive organ of a flower, consisting of an ovary, style, and stigma; equivalent to a megasporophyll.

Ovule:

The structure within the ovary of seed plants that develops into a seed after fertilization; it contains the female gametophyte.