Spore germination and sporeling developlnent in Jungermannia sphaerocarpa Hook.

Abstract

The globular protonema of Jungermannia sphaerocarpa developed outside the spore wall in axenic culture. Up to six gametophytes were produced by each protonema, and sporeling development to the attainment of sexual maturity is described. Significantly fewer and larger oil bodies occurred in the rounded mature leaves compared with bifid immature leaves and with cells of the protonema. Within the numerous rhizoids, an intense purple pigmentation was developed and maintained.