It serves as anchorage and food supply to the parasitic sporophytejaumzaum said:The prothallus is the small gamethophyte stage in pteridophytes. What happens with it after the fertilization and growth of the sporophyte?
It stay attached? It degenerates?
The prothallus is a small, heart-shaped structure found in ferns and other primitive plants. Its main purpose is to produce the male and female reproductive cells, or gametes, which are necessary for fertilization to occur.
After fertilization, the prothallus plays a crucial role in the development of the new plant. It provides nutrients and support for the growing embryo, and eventually develops into the root and stem of the new plant.
Yes, the prothallus also serves as a temporary habitat for the sperm and egg cells to meet and fuse, as well as a protective covering for the developing embryo. It also helps to disperse the spores of the plant.
After fertilization, the prothallus will continue to provide nutrients and support for the developing embryo until it is no longer needed. It will then either wither and die, or become part of the new plant as it grows and matures.
In some species, the prothallus can regenerate and produce new gametes, allowing for multiple rounds of fertilization and reproduction. However, in most cases, the prothallus will not regenerate and will eventually die off.