Consider the following statements regarding gymnosperms and choose the correct option. I. In gymnosperms, the male and female gametophytes have an independent existence. II. The multicellular female gametophyte is retained within the megasporangium. III. All gymnosperms are heterosporous. Of these statements:

Step-by-step solution

Gymnosperms are plants with naked seeds and commonly called as Phanerogams without ovary. These plants show heteromorphic alternation of generation where the sporophyte is diploid, dominant, independent while the gametophyte is haploid, recessive and dependent. Gymnosperms are heterosporous as they produce microspores in microsporangia and megaspore in megasporangia. The multicellular female gametophyte develops and stays within the megasporangium. Cycas, Pinus, Ginkgo are classic examples of gymnosperms.