The Question is from neet-botany plant-kingdom pteridophytes, and it was created by the author K SURESH KUMAR

Question

Which of these characteristics is NOT associated with the evolution of heterospory in pteridophytes?

K SURESH KUMAR · Accepted Answer

## CORE INFORMATION
✓ **Answer**: D
## CONCEPT FRAMEWORK
 **Primary Concept**: Heterospory in Pteridophytes
 **Related Topics**: Megaspores, Microspores, Gametophytes, Fertilization in plants
 **Prerequisites**: Basic understanding of plant reproduction and the life cycle of pteridophytes.
## SOLUTION PATHWAY
**Given Information**:
The question asks to identify the characteristic NOT associated with the evolution of heterospory in pteridophytes.
**Method & Steps**:
1. Understanding Heterospory: Heterospory is the production of two types of spores: microspores (male) and megaspores (female). This leads to the evolution of distinct male and female gametophytes.
2. Analyzing the options:
    a. Reduction in the number of megaspores:  Heterospory typically involves a reduction in the number of megaspores produced, as the focus shifts to producing a few, larger, nutrient-rich megaspores that support the development of the female gametophyte.
    b. Increased protection of the female gametophyte: The larger megaspore provides increased protection and nutrition for the developing female gametophyte, which is retained within the megaspore wall (endosporic).
    c. Development of endosporic gametophytes: The female gametophyte develops entirely within the megaspore wall (endosporic), further enhancing its protection and nutrient supply.
    d. Increased dependence on water for fertilization: While pteridophytes generally require water for fertilization, the evolution of heterospory does not necessarily *increase* this dependence.  In fact, some heterosporous pteridophytes show trends towards reduced dependence on water for fertilization, although this is not a universal characteristic.
3. Identifying the incorrect option: Option D, increased dependence on water for fertilization, is not a direct consequence of heterospory.  While water is still often needed, the trend is towards reduced dependence, particularly in seed plants which evolved from heterosporous ancestors.
 **Result**: D
 **Verification**:  The other options are all directly linked to the advantages and evolutionary consequences of heterospory.  Option D is the only one that does not reflect a consistent pattern.
 ## OPTION ANALYSIS
A :x: Reduction in the number of megaspores is a key feature of heterospory.
B :x: Increased protection of the female gametophyte is a direct result of heterospory and the larger megaspore.
C :x: Development of endosporic gametophytes is another defining characteristic of heterospory.
D ✓: Increased dependence on water for fertilization is not a direct consequence of heterospory; in some cases, there might even be a reduction in dependence.
 ## LEARNING AIDS
 **Common Mistakes**: Confusing the characteristics of heterospory with other aspects of plant reproduction.
 **Quick Tips**: Focus on the core features of heterospory: two types of spores, different sized gametophytes, and the protection afforded to the female gametophyte.

K SURESH KUMAR · Answer

Reduction in the number of megaspores

K SURESH KUMAR · Answer

Increased protection of the female gametophyte

K SURESH KUMAR · Answer

Development of endosporic gametophytes

K SURESH KUMAR · Answer

The correct Option is "Increased dependence on water for fertilization"

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