Abstract

ABSTRACTBryophytes as well as charophycean algae can be used as simple model systems for studying the evolution of the more complex features in higher plants. In this study we have analyzed plasmodesmata and hyaline cell peculiarities in Sphagnum magellanicum Brid., collected from Retezat National Park in June 2005. A high frequency of plasmodesmata in the cross walls, with an enlarged median region and numerous wall-pit perforations considered to be plasmodesmal channels have been observed. The secondary and the dynamic character of the Sphagnum plasmodesmata were found, as in Chara. This peculiarity suggests that plasmodesmata of the bryophytes could represent a new cytological character that supports cellular specialization in symplasmic transport. Hyaline cells formation and secondary wall patterning, the orientation of microtubules associated with this process resembled ultrastructural development in tracheary elements of the higher plants.

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