AP BIOLOGY

Detailed explanation-1: -Marsilea is heterosporous i. e., it produce two types of spores-microspores and megaspores. These spores are produced in microsporangia and megasporangia, respectively. These sporangia are borne in special type of spore producing organ called sporocarp.

Detailed explanation-2: -THE SPOROCARP of Marsilea is a unique botanical structure. When scarified and placed in water, the sorophore contained within the sporocarp gradually expands’ into a long gelatinous column many times the length of the sporocarp.

Detailed explanation-3: -In the Marsileaceae (water-clover) family, the sporocarp is a more elaborate structure formed from an entire leaf whose development and form is greatly modified. These are hairy, short-stalked, bean-shaped structures (usually 3 to 8 mm in diameter) with a hardened outer covering.

Detailed explanation-4: -Along with many other aquatic ferns, they have what are known as sporocarps; specialised leaf branches that enclose the sori, which produce spores, and are typically found at the base of the frond stalk. The sporocarps are hard, bean-like structures that can remain viable for over one century if kept dry.