Difference Between Gametophyte and Sporophyte

Both sporophytes and gametophytes represent distinct stages of the reproductive phases in the life cycle of plants and several algae. Here are some  characteristics of gametophyte and sporophyte.

Sporophyte: The sporophyte represents the phase of the life cycle that is characterised by diploid (2n) cells. The male and the female gamete fuse and produce a diploid zygote during the fertilization process. The zygote matures and germinates and finally gives rise to the sporophyte stage. The most predominant structural characteristic of a sporophyte is producing structures called sporangia that contain spores. The sporangia release spores which are the reproductive cells capable of developing into new individuals. These spores are haploid in nature and arise due to meiosis. Sporophytes are usually the dominant and more visible phase of the life cycle in most plants.

Gametophyte: The gametophyte represents the phase of the life cycle characterised by haploid (n) cells. Gametophytes are smaller and less conspicuous than sporophytes. It is the spores released by the sporophytes that develop into gametophytes which in turn undergo mitosis to produce haploid gametes. In the case of plants, the gametophyte generation is often represented by structures like the pollen grain in males and the embryo sac in females. These male and female gametes fuse during fertilization, giving rise to a new sporophyte generation. This is how the life cycle of the plant completes. 

This alteration in the ploidy level with sporophytes and gametophytes in the life cycle is a defining characteristic of plants and some algae and is known as the alternation of generation. The two generations differ in their ploidy (diploid or haploid), size, structure, and reproductive functions. This reproductive strategy allows for genetic diversity and adaptation, as well as the survival and propagation of these organisms in different environments.