sporofitic

Sporofitic refers to the diploid multicellular stage in the life cycle of organisms that exhibit alternation of generations. This phase follows fertilization, where a haploid gamete fuses with another haploid gamete to form a diploid zygote. The zygote then undergoes mitosis to develop into the sporophyte. The sporophyte generation is characterized by its diploid chromosome number (2n) and its primary function is to produce haploid spores through meiosis. These spores, being haploid (n), are the precursors to the gametophyte generation.

In plants, the sporophyte is typically the dominant and more conspicuous generation, especially in ferns, gymnosperms, and angiosperms. For example, the leafy green plant we recognize as a fern is the sporophyte. In contrast, in algae and some fungi, the gametophyte generation may be the dominant phase. The sporophyte generation is essential for sexual reproduction as it is the only phase capable of undergoing meiosis to generate genetically diverse haploid spores. This cycle of sporophyte and gametophyte generations ensures genetic recombination and continuation of the species. The term "sporofitic" is derived from "sporo-" meaning spore and "-phyte" meaning plant, reflecting its role in spore production.