What is the life cycle of pteridophytes?

The life cycle of pteridophytes alternates between a diploid sporophyte and a haploid gametophyte, showing alternation of generations.

Phases

1. Sporophyte generation: The main plant body (like a fern) is the sporophyte. It produces spores in sporangia.
2. Sporangium and spores: Sporangia are often grouped in sori under the leaves. Spores form by meiosis and are released into the air.
3. Gametophyte generation: The spore germinates into a small, green, heart-shaped gametophyte called a prothallus.
4. Sex organs: The prothallus bears male sex organs (antheridia) and female sex organs (archegonia).
5. Fertilization: Water helps the male gamete swim to the egg in the archegonium to form a zygote.
6. New sporophyte: The zygote grows into a young sporophyte, completing the cycle.