Definition

A small, flat structure that develops from a spore and contains reproductive organs. It is the early stage in the life cycle of ferns and some other plants.

Example

The prothallus of the fern is essential for reproduction as it produces gametes.

Conversation

Have you ever seen a prothallus when hiking in the woods?

I can't say that I have, but it sounds interesting!

It's actually a small structure that ferns produce; it's kind of delicate.

That makes sense! I’ll have to look for it next time.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Prothallus is derived from the Greek "pro-" (meaning before) and "thallus" (meaning a young shoot or sprout). The term refers to the early stage of a gametophyte in ferns, which develops before the mature plant stage.

Memory Tip

Think of 'before' ('pro-') and a 'young shoot' ('thallus') to remember that a prothallus is the early stage of a fern's life cycle.

Visually Confused Words