Title: sporophyte | Definition and Examples | Britannica
Headings: Sporophyte
Sporophyte
biology

Content: fern: life cycle
The life cycle of the fern. © Merriam-Webster Inc.
The character and relative extent of the two phases vary greatly among different groups of plants and algae. During the course of evolution, the sporophyte stage has become progressively increased. Thus, in the higher (i.e., vascular) plants the sporophyte is the dominant phase in the life cycle, whereas in the more primitive nonvascular plants ( bryophytes) the gametophyte remains dominant. The dominant phase in algae often depends on environmental conditions, though some species have determinant life cycles and are commonly gametophyte-dominant. This article was most recently revised and updated by Melissa Petruzzello, Assistant Editor. History at your fingertips
Sign up here to see what happened On This Day, every day in your inbox! Email address
By signing up, you agree to our Privacy Notice. Thank you for subscribing!