Archegonium: The Female Reproductive Organ of Plants - Testbook

Last Updated on Jul 31, 2023
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The archegonium, in singular form, or archegonia, when referred to in plural, are special structures that are found on the gametophytes of certain plants. They carry the ovum or the female gamete. The male equivalent of an archegonium is known as an antheridium.

These archegonia are a common feature of bryophytes and cryptogams (these are plants that do not produce seeds). Interestingly, they can also be found in certain types of gymnosperms.

Delving into the Structure of the Archegonium
  • It has the shape of a flask.
  • The structure comprises a neck and a base that is swollen, which is also known as a venter.
  • The egg is housed within the venter.
  • The neck of the archegonium sticks out from the gametophyte's surface.
  • The neck is made up of four layers of cells that create an opening known as the neck canal.
  • The neck canal cells serve as a pathway for sperm to enter.
  • Upon maturing, the neck canal cells can lyse to make way for the sperm.


Some Examples

Anthoceros , Equisetum , liverworts, horsetails, pines and spruces.

For more details about plants and their parts , feel free to explore.

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Frequently Asked Questions

The archegonium is the female reproductive organ of the plants.

The archegonium consists of the female egg, and serves as a site for fertilisation of the egg and sperm.

Yes, archegonium is present in bryophytes.

The archegonium matures to produce one egg at the base of the venter cells.

No, archegonia do not produce spores, the sporophyte produces spores on maturation.

The archegonium is a haploid structure.

Gnetum species does not have archegonia.

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