Moss sporophytes are typically green when young, but turn brown when ready to release their spores. This observation would lead you to think that the ________.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The green color of young moss sporophytes indicates that they are photosynthesising and generating energy to support spore production. When mature and ready to release spores, they turn brown, indicating their energy contribution is complete. Option B is not likely because the wavelengths used in photosynthesis do not change with age. Option C is incorrect because photosynthesis occurs in the gametophyte generation, not the sporophyte generation. Option D is incorrect because the cuticle is not responsible for the color change in the sporophytes.

Moss Sporophytes Are Typically Green When Young, but Turn Brown