What are ferns...?

Ferns are vascular plants with a two stage lifecycle.

 

The two stages can be completely independent of one another, The sporophyte stage is what we typically think of as a fern. It is typically diploid (i.e. has two sets of chromosomes), however ferns can often be polyploid (have more than two sets).

 

Mature ferns can produce spores as a means of reproduction, these are typically haploid (i.e. one set of chromosomes). Spores can travel great distances due to their small size.

 

Upon landing the spore germinates into a gametophyte. This can have either male or female reproductive organs, or both. Gametophytes take many forms, some short lived, others very long lived, 

 

If conditions are right, gametophytes produce sperm from an Antheridium (the male sex organ); these will swim via a film of water to an Archegonium (the female sex organ) containing an egg. If the egg is fertilized then a new sporophyte will grow.

 

As with all subjects, ferns have their own terms, you may find our glossary useful.