A moss is in the gametophyte phase of its life cycle. Which of the following best describes what happens next in the moss’s life cycle?

Sporangia produce spores, which fertilize eggs and become diploid sporophytes.

Spores are released and germinate into new, haploid gametophytes.

Male and female gametes are formed and combine in a moist environment to form a zygote.

Zygotes form within the gametophytes and rely on the gametophytes for water and nutrients.

Question

A moss is in the gametophyte phase of its life cycle. Which of the following best describes what happens next in the moss’s life cycle?

 Sporangia produce spores, which fertilize eggs and become diploid sporophytes.

 Spores are released and germinate into new, haploid gametophytes.

 Male and female gametes are formed and combine in a moist environment to form a zygote.

 Zygotes form within the gametophytes and rely on the gametophytes for water and nutrients.

joppei · Answer

Ok, there are no spores until sporophytes are formed, so answer A and B are incorrect.
Gametes are of course formed by gametophytes and they usually meet up in raindrops or dewdrops. So answer C seems right. As I just told you moss has no roots, so it has no vascular system as well. You can derive from that that answer D must be rubbish.