On separation and identity of fern antheridiogens

Chromatographic studies show that the hormones controlling antheridium induction in the fern species Pteridium aquilinum (Polypodiaceae), Anemia phyllitidis and Lygodium japonicum (Schizaeaceae) are different molecular entities. SCHRAUDOLF's report that gibberellic acid induces antheridia in A. phyllitidis and L. japonicum was confirmed. The activity spectrum of GAs towards species of different fern families strongly resembles that of the native Anemia antheridiogen. However, the native antheridiogens of A. phyllitidis, and of Lygodium japonicum, are more species-selective in their action than is GA3. Preliminary studies have yielded no conclusive evidence on whether the native antheridiogens are gibberellins.