APOGAMIA EN DRYOPTERIS MUNCHII (DRYOPTERIDACEAE)

Abstract

Spores of Dryopteris munchii were sown
in pots with three types of soil, which had
differences in physical and chemical
properties. The objective was to investigate
the effect soil type in the formation of
apogamous sporophytes. Laboratory
controlled moisture and artificial light
conditions were provided for seven months.
The number of gametophytes was
determined with a stereoscope and the
individuals were classified in four
reproductive groups: asexual, unisexual
male, apogamous sporophytes without
antheridia, and protalli bearing both
antheridia and sporophytes. The highest
percentage of gametophytes observed was
apogamous sporophyte type (51%)
followed by the asexual type (45%). ANOVA
analysis showed no significant difference
(α = 0.05) between the formation of
apogamous sporophytes and type of soil
in which they grew. The andosol type
seems to be the best soils as they provided
better growing conditions, more vigorous,
colorful, and numerous leaves than
arenosols and luvisols. We conclude that
the life cycle of D. munchii is obligate
apogamous and develops independently of
the soil where it grows, which in turn,
indicates the inherent characteristic and
successful propagation system of this
species.