State three differences between the gametophyte and sporophyte of a bryophyte.

1. Size: The gametophyte of a bryophyte is typically larger and more dominant than the sporophyte. The gametophyte is the main photosynthetic structure of the plant, while the sporophyte is usually smaller and dependent on the gametophyte for nutrients.

2. Chromosome number: The gametophyte of a bryophyte is haploid, meaning it has one set of chromosomes, while the sporophyte is diploid, meaning it has two sets of chromosomes. This is known as the alternation of generations, where the plant alternates between a haploid gametophyte and a diploid sporophyte stage.

3. Reproductive structures: The gametophyte of a bryophyte produces gametes (eggs and sperm) in specialized structures called gametangia, while the sporophyte produces spores in a capsule called a sporangium. The gametes produced by the gametophyte fuse to form a zygote, which develops into the sporophyte.

1. Size and Morphology: Gametophytes are typically smaller and leafy, while sporophytes are larger and consist of a stalk topped by a capsule containing spores.

2. Dominance: In bryophytes, the gametophyte is the dominant phase in the life cycle, meaning it is longer-lived and more conspicuous. In contrast, the sporophyte has a shorter lifespan and is dependent on the gametophyte for nutrition.

3. Reproduction: Gametophytes produce gametes (eggs and sperm) by mitosis, while sporophytes produce spores by meiosis. Spores subsequently germinate to form new gametophytes.