An assessment of genetic and environmental effects on sporangial development in bracken [Pteridium aquilinum (L.) Kuhn] using a novel quantitative method

Abstract

A scheme for quantifying sporangial development on Pteridium fronds was constructed. Five stages of development were identified, and the percentage cover of each stage was estimated on one pinna of the frond in question. A weighted sum was calculated to give a single quantitative result. The scheme was used to identify developmental differences in bracken plants of four genotypes grown in factorial combinations of two light and two temperature regimes. Both increased temperature and increased light significantly increased the rate of sporangial development. Genotypes were significantly different from each other, and showed significant differences in response to their environment. (C) 2000 Annals of Botany Company.