Question

Here is combination of statements about various spores :
(A). Ascospore is an example of Meiospore
(B). Meiospores are a product of meiosis
(C). Basidiospore is an example of Meiospore
(D). Zoospores is an example of Meiospore

• A. (A), (B) and (C) only.
• B. (A), (B) and (D) only.
• C. (A), (B), (C) and (D).
• D. (B), (C) and (D) only.

Hint:

Remember that sexual spores in fungi (ascospores, basidiospores) are always meiospores.
Asexual spores (conidia, sporangiospores, zoospores) are mitospores.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Spores are reproductive units produced by fungi, plants, and algae.
Based on the cellular division process that generates them, spores are classified as meiospores (resulting from sexual reproduction involving meiosis) or mitospores (resulting from asexual reproduction involving mitosis).

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
Let us evaluate each statement carefully:
Statement (B): Meiospores are defined as haploid spores that form as a direct result of karyogamy followed by meiosis.
This ensures genetic recombination and variation in the offspring, confirming Statement (B) is true.
Statement (A): In Ascomycota, sexual reproduction involves the fusion of nuclei (karyogamy) in the ascogenous hyphae, followed by meiosis to produce four haploid nuclei, which usually divide mitotically to form eight ascospores inside an ascus.
Thus, ascospores are meiospores, making Statement (A) true.
Statement (C): In Basidiomycota, sexual fusion occurs in the basidium, followed by meiosis to yield four haploid nuclei that migrate into four basidiospores.
Thus, basidiospores are meiospores, making Statement (C) true.
Statement (D): Zoospores are motile, flagellated asexual spores produced mitotically within a sporangium.
They do not involve genetic recombination or meiosis, which means they are mitospores, making Statement (D) false.
Therefore, statements (A), (B), and (C) are correct.

Step 3: Final Answer:
The correct option is (A), (B) and (C) only.