Characterization of Mucilage on the Proximal Cells of Young Gametophytes of Botrychium Dissectum (Ophioglossaceae)

Young gametophytes of Botrychium dissectum produce a mucopolysaccharide coating on the external surface of the proximal cell. Scanning electron microscopy reveals deposition of the mucilage, which initially has a patchy distribution, in the shape of a thick triangular ring. Young gametophytes in the hydrated condition have a thin coating of mucilage over the other areas of the proximal cell wall. Histochemical staining indicates that the mucilage contains sugars with vicinal hydroxyl groups, carboxylated sugars, and small amounts of sulfated sugars. Protein and phenolic materials are also found in the mucilage. Lipids, β , 1‐3 glucans and β ,1‐4 glucans are not present. Fluorescein labelled lectin binding shows the presence of terminal galactose and terminal fucose units. Germinating spores in the presence of the microtubule inhibitors CIPC (3‐chloro‐N‐phenyl isporopyl carbamate) and griesiofulvin cause abnormal mucilage secretion. The inhibitor CIPC prevents mucilage secretion whereas griesiofulvin disrupts the pattern of deposition. Several functions of the mucilage are postulated.