Moss perigonium. Light micrograph of a section through the perigonium of a male haircap moss (Polytrichum juniperinum) plant, showing the paraphysis a

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Moss perigonium. Light micrograph of a section through the perigonium of a male haircap moss (Polytrichum juniperinum) plant, showing the paraphysis and antheridia (male reproductive organs, dark, centre) inside. The perigonium is a bundle of modified leaves surrounding the antheridia. The antheridia produce the male gametes (antherozoids, 'sperm') which fuse with the female ova (eggs) to ultimately form spores. Magnification: x5 when printed 10 centimetres wide.

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Size: 4894px × 3915px
Photo credit: © DR KEITH WHEELER/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY / Alamy / Afripics
License: Licensed
Model Released: No

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