Fertilization

In order for Fertilization to occur, the Neck Canal Cells must undergo autolysis.

In the process chemicals are released which attract Sperm to the opening of the Neck Canal.This is called Chemotaxis.(Chemo = Chemical; Taxis = Directional Response)

Many Sperm may arrive in the vicinity but only one reaches the Egg & acheives Syngamy (Fertilization)

The first division of the Zygote is Transverse and produces an upper (Epibasal) and a lower (Hypobasal) Cell.

Embryo Development is Exoscopic if the Epibasal Cell forms the Embryo.

It is Endoscopic if the Hypobasal Cell forms the Embryo.

The opposite cell produces the Foot which is not considered to be part of the Embryo because it makes no structural contribution to the mature Sporophyte.

The Foot absorbs nutrients from the Gametophyte and passes them to the Embryo.

If the Embryo grows into the Gametophyte, It is called Endoscopic. This gives it protection from the environment and nutrition. These qualities help to assure sexual reproduction.

Exoscopic Embryo Development occurs when the upper (Epibasal) cell forms the Embryo.