Name: Lucia Plunkett

Date: November 2nd 2016

Biology 11 Unit 6 Assignment 1: What is the life cycle of a Simple Plant Virtual Lab
Instructions:
Please complete the What is the Life Cycle of a Simple Plant Virtual Lab.
External Link:
http://www.glencoe.com/sites/common_assets/science/virtual_labs/LS10/LS10.html
Read the information and procedures provided in the lab and complete the journal questions
(provided below). Please note you should be answering your questions in detail, by providing
support in the form of data values (external or from the lab) and/or scientific
information/research to explain your statements.
Journal Questions:
1. What is meant by an alteration-of-generations life cycle?
The alternation of generation is a pattern of reproduction used by many different types of plants
where the individual alternates between two distinct forms (haploid and diploid). In the haploid
(gametophyte) form, all of the plants cells contain one copy of each chromosome. In the diploid
(sporophyte) form, all of the plants cells contain two identical copies of each chromosome.
2. What is the main function of the mature gametophyte?
The main function of a mature gametophyte is to produce gametes (sex cells).
3. What is the main function of the mature sporophyte?
The main function of a mature sporophyte is to produce spores through meiosis.
4. Discuss in detail how a fern plant can reproduce both sexually and asexually. You may
want to use or sketch out images to reference your explanation.
The ferns reproductive cycle begins with the sori development. Sori are clusters of sporangia that
develop on the underside of the fronds and produce spores by meiosis. The haploid spores are
later released into the air and transported via wind. When the spore lands in damp soil it will start
to germinate and form a prothallus. A mature gametophytes underside is covered with rhizoids.
They are haploid and produce gametes. When the sex cells are matured, they are released
(sperm) or release a chemical to attract the sperm (egg). Once the sperm and egg meet a zygote
starts to grow. Fed by the prothallus, the zygote divides by mitosis to form a new sporophyte.
Over time the prothallus withers and the immature sporophyte grows roots, stems and fronds.
Finally, the fern has reached the mature sporophyte stage, fronds, rhizome, diploid cells and all.
It is now ready to produce sori.

5. Based on what you know about fern reproduction, why do you think ferns tend to inhabit
moist environments? What adaptations does it have to this environment?
Ferns inhabit moist environments because thats where they can thrive. Because they produce
spores and not seeds they are dependent on water.
Image of your Lab:
Please include a screenshot image of your completed life cycle from your virtual lab below
(which will reveal the fern life cycle).