Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
gametophyte
noun
/ˈɡæməˌtaɪfaɪt/
Definition
A gametophyte is a phase in the life cycle of plants and some algae that produces gametes, which are the reproductive cells needed for sexual reproduction.
Examples
- The moss you see in the forest is a gametophyte stage of its life cycle.
- During the gametophyte phase, ferns produce spores that can lead to new plants.
- Some gymnosperms exhibit a gametophyte phase within their cones.
Meaning
In simpler terms, a gametophyte is a plant’s or an alga’s form that reproduces by creating male and female gametes.
Synonyms
- None
