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Hepatophyta - Marchantiales - 5 |  |
| Sexual Reproduction | |
The Gametophytes produce multicellular Gametangia. Gametangia produce Gametes. Gametangia have a sterile, protective covering layer of cells called a Jacket. The Reproductive Cells are internal. These are called Spermatogenous Cells if they produce Sperm. Sperm are produced in Antheridia. |
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Antheridiophore "That which bears Antheridia"They can be nearly Sessile or may be Elevated on a relatively large stalk. |
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The
Top has an Entire Margin or is Slightly Lobed. The Antheridia are Embedded in the Upper Surface. This helps to protect them. |
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 Antheridial development is progressive with mature and immature Antheridia present simultaneously. This lengthens the time-span during which sperm may be produced & thus increases the likelihood of successful reproduction. |
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| They Open at the Top. This helps to distribute sperm. They must be wet to release the sperm because the sperm require water to survive and arrive! When the Antheridia are mature and hit with rainwater, they swell and release their sperm. | |
| Each Antheridium contains Spermatogenous
Cells which undergo Mitosis. Cells eventually stop dividing and develop into Sperm. |
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The Sperm are Flagellated & require H2O to Swim to the Egg. |
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