A:
Sequoia, One Of The Tallest Tree Species, Is A Gymnosperm
B:
Roots In Pinus Have Fungal Association In The Form Of Mycorrhiza
C:
Leaves In Gymnosperms Have Thick Cuticle And sunken Stomata To Reduce Water Loss
D:
The Male And Female Gametophytes Have An Independent Free-Living Existence
Explanation
The incorrect statement is D: The male and female gametophytes have an independent free-living existence.
In gymnosperms, the male and female gametophytes do not have an independent free-living existence. The male gametophyte, also known as the pollen grain, develops from a microspore in the male cone. It is dependent on the parent sporophyte for nutrition and protection as it is dispersed by wind or insects to reach the female cone for fertilization.
The female gametophyte, also known as the embryo sac, develops from a megaspore in the ovule. It is also dependent on the parent sporophyte for nutrition and protection. After fertilization, the zygote develops into an embryo, and the ovule develops into a seed that contains the embryo and endosperm.
Sequoia is a gymnosperm, and it is one of the tallest tree species. Roots in Pinus have a fungal association in the form of mycorrhiza, which helps the plant absorb nutrients from the soil. Leaves in gymnosperms have a thick cuticle and sunken stomata to reduce water loss, which is important for survival in dry environments.
