Sperm from the male organs swim to the top of the female plant or branch where the egg has developed. This sporophyte depends on the female gametophyte for food and water. Cells within the sporophyte undergo meiosis producing haploid spores. When the spores are mature, the capsule bursts, releasing its spores. If a spore lands in a suitable place, it germinates to from a protonema.
Most bryophytes are capable of vegetative propagation.
Sporangia are formed either on the underside of green vegetative fronds or on separate nongreen fertile fronds. Ferns are also capable of vegetative propagation. Life History of Ferns 1. Cells in each sporangium undergo meiosis, producing haploid spores which are shed into the air and drift to the ground. The spore grows into a small green gametophyte.