How many meiotic and mitotic divisions need to occur for the development of a mature female gametophyte from the megaspore mother…

Question

How many meiotic and mitotic divisions need to occur for the development of a mature female gametophyte from the megaspore mother cell in an angiosperm plant?

1. A. 2 Meiosis and 3 Mitosis
2. B. 1 Meiosis and 2 Mitosis
3. C. 1 Meiosis and 3 Mitosis (Correct answer)
4. D. No Meiosis and 2 Mitosis

Correct Answer

Option C — 1 Meiosis and 3 Mitosis

Detailed Solution & Explanation

The correct answer is 1 Meiosis and 3 Mitosis.

Key Points

• The megaspore mother cell undergoes 1 meiotic division to produce four megaspores (one functional).
• The functional megaspore then undergoes 3 successive mitotic (free-nuclear) divisions to form the 8-nucleate, 7-celled mature embryo sac.