Growth and development of the megagametophyte of the vascular plant Selaginella (Lycopsida) on defined media

Abstract

Megagametophytes of the heterosporous lower vascular plant, Selaginella, were cultured on a variety of types and concentrations of carbon sources (glucose, sucrose, trehalose, and sorbitol), with and without B vitamins, in an attempt to induce apogamy. Without B vitamins growth was enhanced on glucose and trehalose, but not on sucrose. With B vitamins growth was enhanced on all types and concentrations of carbon sources. Enhanced growth involved the production of greater numbers of cells in the tissue. Chlorophyll-a was present in megagametophytes cultured on many of the treatments, including control treatments without supplemental carbon. Apogamy was not induced.