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Question #47504
The Question
In a pteridophyte exhibiting a haplo-diplontic life cycle, a specific mutation prevents the terminalization of chiasmata during sporogenesis. Which of the following represents the most direct consequence of this meiotic failure?
Options
- A.
Failure of homologous chromosome segregation during Anaphase I, leading to aneuploid spores and the inability to establish a viable gametophytic phase.
- B.
Inhibition of the recombinase enzyme, preventing crossing over during Pachytene and reducing genetic diversity in the prothallus.
- C.
Persistence of the synaptonemal complex through Metaphase I, causing the formation of diploid spores that bypass the gametophytic stage.
- D.
Non-disjunction of sister chromatids during Anaphase II, resulting in the formation of a linked-haploid sporophyte generation.
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Correct Answer
Step-by-Step Solution
Explanation
How the Examiner Thinks
Regulatory_Failure
Understand how NOT, EXCEPT, and logical constraints are used to manipulate exam results.
Concepts Behind This Question
Meiosis I|Prophase I|Oogenesis|Spore Mother Cell
Why This Question Is Tricky
Common Mistakes
Conceptual Pivot: Students often fail to chronologically separate the sub-stages of Prophase I.
The trap relies on confusing the timing of crossing over (Pachytene) and synaptonemal complex dissolution (Diplotene) with terminalization (Diakinesis).
It also tests the ability to link a micro-cellular meiotic error (Anaphase I non-disjunction) to its macro-level consequence on the Alternation of Generations (failure to transition from diploid sporophyte to haploid gametophyte).
Quick Facts About This Question
Question Information
| Subject | Biology |
| Chapter | Plant Kingdom - Class 11 |
| Concept | Haplontic-Diplontic Life Cycle Transitions |
| Difficulty | 8 |
| Cognitive Load | 5 |
| Target Solve Time | 120 sec |
| Access | Free |