Effect of Chelating Agents and Metal Ions on Gametangial Formation in the Moss Bryum argenteum Hedw

Chelating agents such as EDTA and EDDHA markedly stimulate the formation of gametangia in the dioecious moss Bryum argenteum, and the effect is more pronounced on male than on female clones. EDTA-stimulated gametangial formation is associated with significant increases in endogenous iron and copper. Ferric citrate also enhances gametangial formation, but copper sulphate is inhibitory. The present findings are discussed in the context of earlier investigations on other plants in an attempt to explain the possible involvement of chelating agents and metal ions in stimulating the onset of the reproductive phase in this moss.