Before You Begin
Question #46902
The Question
In the haplontic life cycle of green algae like Volvox and Spirogyra, the diploid phase is severely truncated. Which of the following statements regarding this evolutionary and physiological strategy is INCORRECT?
Options
- A.
The sporophytic generation is represented exclusively by a one-celled zygote, preventing the evolution of multicellular diploid somatic complexity.
- B.
The zygote undergoes sporic meiosis to produce haploid spores, which then divide mitotically to form the dominant, free-living gametophyte.
- C.
Biological investment is heavily skewed towards rapid reproductive output via haploid spores rather than prolonged diploid vegetative growth.
- D.
Mitotic divisions are entirely restricted to the haploid phase, making the photosynthetic gametophyte the only multicellular stage.
Check Your Answer
Correct Answer
Step-by-Step Solution
Explanation
How the Examiner Thinks
Evolutionary_Exception
Tackle problems where standard rules evolve or change based on specific environmental constraints.
Concepts Behind This Question
Haplontic-Diplontic Life Cycle Transitions|Growth-Reproduction Mutual Exclusivity
Why This Question Is Tricky
Common Mistakes
Conceptual Pivot & Terminology Trap: Students often assume that because 'spores' are produced, the process must be 'sporic meiosis'.
However, biological nomenclature strictly defines meiosis in a single-celled zygote as 'zygotic meiosis' (characteristic of haplontic cycles), whereas 'sporic meiosis' requires a distinct, multicellular sporophyte to act as the meiocyte.
Quick Facts About This Question
Question Information
| Subject | Biology |
| Chapter | The Living World - Class 11 |
| Concept | Growth-Reproduction Mutual Exclusivity |
| Difficulty | 8 |
| Cognitive Load | 5 |
| Target Solve Time | 120 sec |
| Access | Free |