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Common horsetail spore, SEM
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Common horsetail spore, SEM
Common horsetail spore. Coloured scanning electron micrograph (SEM) of a spore of a common horsetail (Equisetum arvense) plant. The spore (green) bears elaters (grey) that expand and contract with changes in humidity. Elaters help to tangle spores together into a clump called a propagule, and to dig spores into the soil. A spore is part of the sexual reproduction of this plant, and horsetails normally use asexual reproduction using rhizomes (underground stems). Horsetails are the only living group of a primitive family of plants, the Sphenopsids, that date back to the Devonian period, 355-410 million years ago. Magnification: x555 at 6x7cm size
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Media ID 6292615
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Ancient Common Devonian Elater Elaters Equisetum Arvense Horsetail Primitive Pteridophyte Pteridophytes Reproducing Reproduction Reproductive Sexual Spore
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This print showcases the intricate beauty of a common horsetail spore, captured using a scanning electron microscope (SEM). The vibrant green spore is adorned with delicate elaters in shades of grey. These remarkable structures possess the unique ability to expand and contract in response to changes in humidity. Elaters play a crucial role by entangling spores together into propagules, forming clumps that aid dispersal and facilitate their burial into the soil. Spores are an essential component of the sexual reproduction process for this plant species, although horsetails primarily rely on asexual reproduction through underground stems called rhizomes. Horsetails belong to an ancient family of plants known as Sphenopsids, which trace back millions of years to the Devonian period. Their existence dates back approximately 355-410 million years ago, making them one of nature's living relics. The magnified view at x555 reveals astonishing details within this microcosmic world. This image not only highlights the primitive nature and botanical significance of horsetails but also serves as a testament to their resilience throughout evolution. With its blend of scientific precision and artistic allure, this SEM photograph from Science Photo Library captures both our fascination with ancient flora and our appreciation for the wonders found within nature's smallest realms.
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