This life cycle is characterized by the alternation of a haploid gametophyte generation and a diploid sporophyte generation. In Ulva, the gametophyte is the dominant phase, producing haploid gametes. These gametes fuse to form a diploid zygote, which develops into the sporophyte. The sporophyte then undergoes meiosis to produce haploid spores, which germinate to form new gametophytes, completing the cycle.