Germination of foliar viviparous buds in Bolbitis semicordata (Lomariopsidaceae); its ontogeny, vasculature and ecological significance

Ontogeny and vasculature of viviparous buds in Bolbitis semicordata (Baker) Ching was studied. The bud showed a superficial origin, later developing in to a rhizomatous structure. The bud developed root primordia from a meristematic cell having four cutting faces. Simultaneous with leaf primordial development, the mid-rib of the leaf produces a lateral bundle which later on supplies vasculature to the developing bud. Roots and fronds develop in an alternate manner, the increasing weight causes the bud to hang down and thus roots get established in the soil. Since no sexual reproduction was noticed during viviparous germination, this method may be an alternative in unfavorable conditions to replace the same.