The document discusses two theories on the evolution of the sporophyte in bryophytes:
1) The theory of progressive sterilization proposes that sporophytes evolved through the progressive sterilization of potential sporogenous tissue, with simpler forms like Riccia having a higher proportion of fertile tissue and more complex forms like Funaria having more sterile tissues like feet, setae, and capsule walls.
2) The reduction theory proposes that sporophyte evolution occurred through the downward reduction and simplification of structures, with features like dehiscence apparatuses, photosynthetic capsule walls, and structures like the foot and seta disappearing over time. Supporters believe the simple sporophyte of Riccia represents