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Gametangia are Embedded in the Dorsal Surface.

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Antheridial Cavity in a Thallus

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Section through embedded Antheridia

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Biflagellate Sperm are produced.

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The Protrusions in the SEM photo are sites where Antheridia are breaking through the Thallus.
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Antheridium rupturing through the surface of the Thallus

Archegonia are also Embedded in the Thallus. You can see the openings to the Neck Canals below.
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All of the images above are from Lan Plants On Line-->>

Sporophytes

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Sporophytes at Various Developmental Stages

Each Archegonium produces a Calyptra which protects the Sporophyte during early Development.

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Diagram showing the relationship between Sporophytes & Gametophytes

Sporophyte Development

The Sporophytes are Cylindrical & highly Elongate. They grow for a relatively long time and have an Intercalary Meristem like grasses. This means that meristematic activity is confined to the base rather than the apex. They are are not exactly Sequoia-like in growth, but they can reach 16 cm in height.

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Gametophytes with Photosynthetic Sporophytes

Sporogenous Tissue develops in the Capsule. The central Columella is sterile and can have cells with spiral secondary wall thickenings. This provides support for the elongated Sporophyte.

The Meiospores are surrounded by several layers of Parenchyma cells and an Epidermis. Stomata are present in the Epidermis.
The Sporophyte has several autotrophic adaptations remember them!!!!!!

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Cross-Section through the Sporophyte of Anthoceros. Note the Epidermis, Chlorenchyma layers, Spores and Columella.

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