Year: 2024
Type: article
Abstract: This review presents a comprehensive examination of bryophyte reproductive biology, an area pivotal to understanding these unique land plants. We delve into the morphological intricacies of both sexual and asexual reproductive structures in bryophytes, underscoring their integral roles in the life cycles of these organisms. Our discussion encompasses the diverse sexual systems observed in bryophytes, ranging from monoicous to dioicous configurations, and investigates the patterns and ecological consequences of sex ratios, particularly the commonly observed female-biased ratios. In detailing reproductive strategies, the review evaluates the reproductive investments, efforts, and costs associated with these ratios in various species. Such analysis provides insights into the evolutionary and ecological dynamics shaping bryophyte populations. We also highlight the primary types of asexual reproductive structures, such as gemmae and leafy propagula, providing examples that illustrate their importance in bryophyte life strategies, especially in terms of dispersal capabilities and habitat colonization. Furthermore, the review juxtaposes the advantages and disadvantages of sexual and asexual reproduction, considering their implications for the distribution, genetic diversity, and conservation of bryophyte species. This comparison sheds light on the adaptive significance of these reproductive modes in response to environmental pressures and habitat variability. To aid in the understanding of specialized terms and concepts, the review includes a brief glossary of key terminology used in bryophyte reproductive biology. This addition makes the paper accessible to a diverse audience, ranging from academic researchers to students and enthusiasts in the field of botany. Overall, this review offers an insightful and thorough exploration of the reproductive strategies of bryophytes, enhancing our understanding of their complex life cycles and the implications for their survival and proliferation in varied ecosystems.
Authors: Adaises S. Maciel-Silva, Kátia C. Pôrto
Language: English
Domain: Life Sciences
Open Access status: hybrid
OpenAlex ID: W4406970717