Alternation of generations ($n\leftrightarrow 2n$)

Alternation between a multicellular haploid gametophyte and a multicellular diploid sporophyte. meiosis produces spores, whereas fertilization restores the diploid condition; the generations grow by mitosis.

The generation developing from a zygote and producing spores through meiosis. In the usual land-plant cycle it is diploid. Its nutritional independence and stature differ markedly between bryophytes and vascular plants.

A structure in which spores are produced. One unbranched bryophyte sporophyte bears a single sporangium; branching sporophytes can distribute several sporangia on one body.

A spore-producing structure associated with the male developmental lineage in heterospory.