VerifiedSolution:
Hint:
The development of male and female gametophytes in angiosperm flowers occurs in specific reproductive structures.
Complete Answer:
Male Gametophyte Development: The male gametophyte in angiosperms, specifically the pollen grain, develops in the anther of the flower. The anther is the male reproductive organ responsible for producing and releasing pollen. Inside the anther, microsporangia contain microspore mother cells. These mother cells undergo meiosis to produce microspores, and these microspores eventually develop into pollen grains, which contain the male gametophyte.
Female Gametophyte Development:
The female gametophyte, known as the embryo sac, develops within the ovule of the flower. The ovule is typically found within the ovary of the flower. Within the embryo sac, a megaspore mother cell undergoes meiosis to form a single functional megaspore. This megaspore undergoes further mitotic divisions to give rise to the female gametophyte, which consists of the egg cell, two synergids, and three antipodal cells.
Note:
The male and female gametophytes play crucial roles in the sexual reproduction of angiosperms. Once the male gametophyte (pollen grain) is transferred to the stigma of a compatible flower, it forms a pollen tube, allowing the male gametes to travel to the female gametophyte (embryo sac) in the ovule. Fertilization occurs when the male gametes (sperm cells) join with the female gametes (egg cell) within the embryo sac, ultimately leading to the formation of seeds, which develop into new plants. This process is a fundamental part of the life cycle of flowering plants.
