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Guilherme Mazui

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What is the Difference Between Sporophyte and Gametophyte?

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The main difference between sporophytes and gametophytes lies in their respective roles in plant reproduction and the number of sets of chromosomes they possess:

  • Sporophytes are diploid, meaning they have two sets of chromosomes (2n). They participate in asexual reproduction, producing haploid (n) spores through a process called meiosis. Sporophytes are the dominant generation in pteridophytes, gymnosperms, and angiosperms.
  • Gametophytes are haploid, meaning they have a single set of chromosomes (n). They participate in sexual reproduction, producing male and female gametes through a process called mitosis. Gametophytes are the dominant generation in bryophytes and algae.

In summary, sporophytes are diploid and reproduce asexually, while gametophytes are haploid and reproduce sexually.

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  • What is the Difference Between Sporophyte and Gametophyte?
  • Comparative Table: Sporophyte vs Gametophyte

    • Comparative Table: Sporophyte vs Gametophyte

    Here is a table highlighting the differences between sporophytes and gametophytes:

    Feature Sporophytes Gametophytes
    Cell Division Use meiosis, resulting in the formation of spores Use mitosis, producing gametes
    Ploidy Diploid, containing two sets of chromosomes Haploid, containing a single set of chromosomes
    Reproduction Asexual Sexual
    Phase Asexual phase in the life cycle of plants Sexual phase in the life cycle of plants
    Number of Chromosomes Two sets (2n total) Single set (n total)

    In the life cycle of plants, there are two different phases: asexual (sporophyte) and sexual (gametophyte). Sporophytes produce spores through meiosis, while gametophytes produce gametes through mitosis. Sporophytes are diploid, meaning they contain two sets of chromosomes, whereas gametophytes are haploid and have only one set of chromosomes.

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    Guilherme Mazui

    Guilherme Mazui is graduated in journalism from the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG) and a master's degree in Communication from the University of São Paulo (USP). In addition, he has experience in advertising writing and has worked as a content editor in several companies.