Gametophyte Development, Sex Expression and Antheridiogen System in Pteris incompleta Cav. (Pteridaceae)

The gametophytic phase of several species of Pteris has been well studied, but for others, due perhaps to their more restricted distribution, little is known. Agar and soil cultures of different spore samples of P. incompleta were established in order to analyze developmental features of its gametophytes. Gametophyte development followed the Ceratopteris pattern, but resulted in a slightly different morphology from that of other more common species of the genus. Sex expression was variable among gametophyte populations, and was affected by culture medium. An antheridiogen system was present and promoted both male precocity and dark germination. Antheridiogen response was variable among gametophyte populations. Positive antheridiogen response in interspecific gametophyte pairings suggests a common antheridiogen system in Pteris vittata and P. incompleta.