Gymnosperm vs Angiosperm Classification — NEET Biology

Correct answer: B — S3 only

The question asks to identify the incorrect statement regarding angiosperm reproductive characteristics based on NCERT Chapter 3. S1: Correct. NCERT states, 'Unlike the gymnosperms where the ovules are naked, in the angiosperms or flowering plants...the seeds are enclosed in fruits.' This implies ovules are enclosed in an ovary which forms the fruit. (Page 34). S2: Correct. Pollen grains are indeed the male gametophytes (implicitly from Chapter 3, explicit in Chapter 2, but general understanding is aligned). Their transfer is essential for fertilisation. (Page 34). S3: Incorrect. The female gametophyte (embryo sac) in angiosperms is highly reduced and is always enclosed within the ovule, which itself is inside the ovary. It is not free-living, multicellular in the sense of a prothallus, or photosynthetic. This contrasts with the free-living gametophytes of bryophytes and pteridophytes. Chapter 3 emphasizes these distinctions (e.g., 'Unlike bryophytes and pteridophytes, in gymnosperms, the male and the female gametophytes do not have an independent free-living existence.' p. 33, implying even greater reduction in angiosperms). Therefore, this statement is false. S4: Correct. NCERT summary mentions 'Double fertilisation is an event unique to angiosperms.' (Page 35, Summary of Angiosperms). The details of fusion are also well-established for double fertilisation. S5: Correct. NCERT states, 'They are divided into two classes : the dicotyledons and the monocotyledons (Figure 3.5).' and 'Angiosperms are an exceptionally large group of plants occurring in wide range of habitats.' (Page 34). Therefore, only statement S3 is NOT correct. The tested concept is the distinguishing reproductive features and life cycle characteristics of angiosperms.