Elater is found in

The correct answer is Marchantia

Explanation:

• Elaters are specialized structures found in some bryophytes that aid in the dispersal of spores. They are hygroscopic, meaning they respond to changes in moisture levels, and play a critical role in spore release.
• Elaters are typically non-reproductive and do not form from meiotic divisions; instead, they are formed from the cells of the sporophyte or gametophyte.
• Bryophytes are non-vascular plants, and they include liverworts, mosses, and hornworts.
  • Elaters are present in Marchantia, a genus of liverworts. They are elongated, spindle-shaped structures found in the sporangium (capsule).
  • Elaters are hygroscopic, meaning they coil and uncoil in response to changes in humidity, aiding in the dispersal of spores from the sporangium.
  • This mechanism ensures that spores are released into an environment conducive to germination, enhancing reproductive success.

Other Options (Incorrect Answers):

• Riccia:
  • Riccia is another genus of liverworts, but it lacks elaters. Instead, it relies on simple mechanisms for spore dispersal.
  • Its sporangium ruptures to release spores, but the absence of elaters means that spore dispersal is not actively aided by hygroscopic structures.
• Funaria:
  • Funaria is a genus of mosses, and mosses do not possess elaters.
  • Instead, mosses have a peristome, a structure around the mouth of the capsule that aids in spore dispersal. The mechanism is different from elaters.
• Sphagnum:
  • Sphagnum, commonly known as peat moss, also does not have elaters.
  • It disperses spores through a unique explosive mechanism where the sporangium builds up internal pressure to shoot spores into the air.