Antheridium

Definition

An antheridium is a male reproductive structure found in seedless plants, fungi, and algae. It produces and releases sperm cells necessary for fertilization.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Antheridia are typically found in non-vascular plants like mosses, liverworts, and ferns.
2. The antheridium is usually a multicellular structure.
3. It produces motile sperm which require water to reach the female gametophyte for fertilization.
4. Antheridia can be found on the same plant as archegonia (female structures) or on separate plants.
5. In ferns, antheridia are often located on the undersides of the gametophyte.

Review Questions

• What is the primary function of an antheridium?
• In what types of organisms are antheridia commonly found?
• Why do sperm from antheridia require water for fertilization?

Related terms

archegonium: The female reproductive structure that produces eggs in seedless plants, such as mosses and ferns.

gametophyte: The haploid stage in the life cycle of plants that produces gametes through mitosis.

sporophyte: The diploid stage in the life cycle of plants that arises from fertilization and produces spores through meiosis.