Biology · PLANT KINGDOM

A key features difference distinguishing Gymnosperms from Bryophytes and Pteridophytes regarding gametophytic existence is that in Gymnosperms:

1. Male and female gametophytes have an independent free-living photosynthetic existence.
2. The gametophyte is the dominant, photosynthetic, and independent vascular plant body.
3. Gametophytes form flagellated antherozoids that swim freely in surface water films.
4. Male and female gametophytes do not have an independent free-living existence and remain retained within sporangia.