SPOROPHYTE Meaning and
Definition
-
A sporophyte is a term used in biology to describe the diploid multicellular phase in the life cycle of plants, fungi, and some algae. It refers to the stage of the organism's life cycle where it produces spores through meiosis, which are involved in reproduction.
In plants, the sporophyte is the dominant phase of the life cycle, such as in ferns, gymnosperms (like conifers), and angiosperms (flowering plants). It typically consists of a complex structure, including stems, roots, leaves, and reproductive organs. The sporophyte produces specialized structures called sporangia, which contain the spores. The spores are then dispersed to new areas where they can develop into new plants.
Fungi also have a sporophyte phase in their life cycle, although it varies depending on the specific group. For example, in the bread mold (Rhizopus), the sporophyte is a structure called a sporangium that produces spores.
Similarly, some algae, like red algae and brown algae, have a sporophyte phase that involves the production of spores.
The sporophyte phase is usually preceded by a haploid phase called the gametophyte, where gametes are produced through mitosis. In many organisms, including plants, the sporophyte phase is independent and nutritionally self-sufficient, while the gametophyte is smaller and dependent on the sporophyte for nutrients.
Overall, the sporophyte phase plays a crucial role in the life cycle of plants, fungi, and certain algae, as it is responsible for the production and dispersal of spores, contributing to the continuation and reproduction of these organisms.
-
Sporophore, the spore-bearing stage, or life-cycle, of a plant.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for SPOROPHYTE
Etymology of SPOROPHYTE
The word "sporophyte" is derived from two roots: "sporo" and "phyte".
- "Sporo" comes from the Greek word "sporos", which means "a seed" or "a spore". It is related to terms like "spore", "sporadic", and "sporogenesis".
- "Phyte" is derived from the Greek word "phyton", meaning "plant". It is seen in words like "phytology" (the study of plants), "phytogeography" (the study of the geographical distribution of plants), and "neophyte" (a person who is new to a subject or activity).
Combining these roots, "sporophyte" refers to the diploid multicellular organism in plants that produces spores through meiosis.
Similar spelling words for SPOROPHYTE
- sporophyll,
- superfight,
- superfood,
- sporophore,
- sporophyl,
- superheavyweight,
- Spearfoot,
- spiroffite,
- super heavyweight,
- Superfete,
- supervote,
- saprophyte,
- superfit.
Infographic
Add the infographic to your website:
