Sporangia and spores of the male fern
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Sporangia and spores of the male fern
Light micrograph of the sporangia (spore sacs) and spores of the male fern", Dryopteris filix-mas. The sporangia of Dryopteris are borne on the undersides of the leaf fronds in brown kidney- shaped structures known as sori. Each sporangium is a biconvex capsule in which the mature spores lie freely. Five ruptured sporangia are seen here. The prominent yellow structure around the edge of each sporangium wall is a band of thick-walled cells called the annulus. As the mature sporangium dries, the tension in the walls of the annulus causes the sporangium to rupture, expelling the spores which are then distributed by the wind. Magnification: x100 at 35mm size."
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Media ID 9194163
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Dryopteris Filix Mas Fern Ferns Male Fern Pteridophyte Pteridophytes Seed Dispersal Sporangium Spore Spores Annulus Light Micrograph
EDITORS COMMENTS
This print showcases the intricate beauty of the male fern, Dryopteris filix-mas. The image zooms in on the sporangia, or spore sacs, and spores of this remarkable plant species. These sporangia can be found nestled discreetly beneath the leaf fronds, forming brown kidney-shaped structures known as sori. In this particular snapshot, we witness five ruptured sporangia revealing their mature spores within. A striking feature is the vibrant yellow band encircling each sporangium wall called the annulus. Composed of thick-walled cells, it serves a crucial role in seed dispersal for these ferns. As time progresses and the mature sporangium dries out, tension builds up within its walls due to the annulus. Eventually, this tension becomes too great and causes an explosive rupture that propels the spores into their surroundings with impressive force. Wind acts as nature's courier service by carrying these tiny yet resilient spores far and wide. The magnification used for this photograph was x100 at 35mm size, allowing us to appreciate even minute details of this botanical marvel. Science Photo Library has once again captured a mesmerizing moment in nature's grand tapestry through their lens - offering us a glimpse into the fascinating world of pteridophytes like Dryopteris filix-mas and their incredible mechanisms for survival and reproduction.
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