NEET2026BiologyChapterActual
Which of the following statements is incorrect regarding the general characteristics of gymnosperms?
Options
- AThe roots of these plants are generally tap roots.
- BThey are heterosporous, producing haploid microspores and megaspores.
- CThe ovules are enclosed by an ovary wall prior to fertilisation.
- DThe male and female gametophytes do not have an independent free-living existence.
Correct answer
C. The ovules are enclosed by an ovary wall prior to fertilisation.
Step-by-step solution
Gymnosperms are plants in which the ovules are not enclosed by any ovary wall and remain exposed, both before and after fertilisation. Therefore, the statement that ovules are enclosed by an ovary wall prior to fertilisation is incorrect. The roots of gymnosperms are generally tap roots. Gymnosperms are heterosporous, meaning they produce two different kinds of spores: haploid microspores and megaspores. Unlike bryophytes and pteridophytes, in gymnosperms the male and the female gametophytes do not have an independ