Alternation of generations

  • Title

    Alternation of generations

  • Definition

    Referring to the alternation of the haploid (n) and diploid (2n) generations of plants. In the lower plants (e.g., the bryophytes), the gametophyte generation is the dominant phase and the sporophyte generation depends on it for photosynthate. In contrast, in the higher plants (e.g., the flowering plants) the sporophyte generation is the dominant phase and the gametophyte depends on it for photosynthate.

  • Related Terms

    Gametophyte

    Sporophyte

    Haploid

    Diploid

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