You have discovered two very different-looking plants, which actually turn out to be of the same species as determined by comparison of the genome sequences.Which is the best explanation for this apparent paradox?
A) A single mutation in one has caused a completely different morphology.
B) The organism has a haplontic life cycle.
C) The organism exhibits alternation of generations.
D) The organism has a diplontic life cycle.
E) One is male and one is female.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Alternation of generations is a reproductive strategy where there are two distinct multicellular phases in the life cycle of an organism, a diploid sporophyte phase and a haploid gametophyte phase. These two phases have different morphologies but are genetically the same. Thus, this would explain why the two plants look different but have the same genome. The different morphologies are a result of the different phases in the life cycle.

You Have Discovered Two Very Different-Looking Plants, Which Actually Turn