Abstract Detail
Bryological and Lichenological Section/ABLS Shortlidge, Erin [1], Rosenstiel, Todd [1], Eppley, Sarah [1]. Effects of environmental stress on the motility and viability of moss spermatozoa. Sexual reproduction in mosses requires that motile spermatozoa be released into the environment, thereby potentially encountering extreme abiotic stress before reaching the archegonia. We investigated the effects of environmental stress on spermatazoa of three moss species: Bryum argenteum, Campylopus introflexus, and Ceratodon purpureus. Spermatozoa were extracted from the antheridia of healthy males and tested for tolerance to simulated abiotic stress. We used sperm motility and DNA integrity to determine sperm viability after treatments, including desiccation stress. Cell motility and viability were quantified using combined techniques of counting via hemocytometer designed for sperm cells, and fluorescent microscopy techniques. Nucleic acid stains were used to determine proportions of live and dead cells as well as examine motility. Our results suggest that moss spermatozoa are tolerant to a range of abiotic stressors. Broader Impacts:
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Related Links:
Eppley Lab, Portland State University
1 - Portland State University, Department of Biology, PO Box 751, Portland, OR, 97207, USA
Keywords:
Bryophyte
stress tolerance
sexual reproduction
motile gametes
desiccation.
Presentation Type: Poster:Posters for Sections
Session: P
Location: Hall A/Convention Center
Date: Monday, August 2nd, 2010
Time: 5:30 PM
Number: PBL007
Abstract ID:698 | 
