Horsetail spores, SEM

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Horsetail spores, SEM

Horsetail spores. Coloured scanning electron micrograph (SEM) of spores of a horsetail (Equisetum sp.). The spores (orange) bear elaters (green), which 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. 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. Horsetails normally spread by asexual reproduction using rhizomes (underground stems). Magnification: x180 at 6x7cm size

Science Photo Library features Science and Medical images including photos and illustrations

Media ID 6292605

© SUSUMU NISHINAGA/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY

Dispersal Elater Elaters Horsetail Pteridophyte Pteridophytes Re Production Reproductive Sexual Spore Spores

EDITORS COMMENTS
This print showcases the intricate beauty of horsetail spores, captured using a scanning electron microscope (SEM). The vibrant orange spores are adorned with delicate green structures known as elaters. These remarkable elaters possess an extraordinary ability to expand and contract in response to changes in humidity. Elaters play a crucial role in the life cycle of horsetails. They aid in tangling the individual spores together into a clump called a propagule, facilitating their dispersal. Moreover, these specialized structures assist in burying the spores deep into the soil, ensuring favorable conditions for germination and growth. Horsetails belong to an ancient family of plants called Sphenopsids, which can be traced back to the Devonian period that existed over 355-410 million years ago. As such, they represent one of nature's living relics from prehistoric times. Typically relying on asexual reproduction through underground stems called rhizomes, horsetails have perfected their method of propagation over millions of years. This image offers us a glimpse into their unique sexual reproductive process involving these mesmerizing spores and elaters. Through this visually stunning photograph taken by Science Photo Library's SEM technology at high magnification, we gain insight into the fascinating world of pteridophytes – ancient plants that continue to thrive today while preserving remnants from Earth's distant past.

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