The female gametophyte (embryo sac) develops from a single functional megaspore. Thus, megaspore undergoes three successive mitotic divisions to form 8 nucleate embryo sac. The first mitotic division in the megaspore forms 2 nuclei. One nucleus moves towards the micropylar end while the other nucleus moves towards the chalazal end. Then these nuclei divide at their respective ends and redivide to form 8 nucleate stages.
As a result there are 4 nuclei each at both the ends i.e., at the micropylar and the chalazal end in the embryo sac. At the micropylar end, out of 4 nuclei only 3 differentiate into 2 synergids and one egg cell. Together they are known as egg apparatus. Similarly, at the chalazal end 3 out of 4 nuclei differentiates as antipodal cells. The remaining 2 cells (of the micropylar and chalazal end) move towards the centre and are known as the polar nuclei, which are situated in the centre of embryo sac. Hence, at maturity, the female gametophyte appears as a 7 celled structure, though is has 8 nucleate.
