Abstract
The gametophytes of Schizaea melanesica from Fiji are described. The unbranched body has a near‐basal, tuberous portion and a more distal thinner portion. The basal portion becomes tuberous as the result of a peripheral thickening meristem. The apex of the gametophyte has an apical cell with three cutting faces. Scattered over the surface are rhizoid‐like outgrowths which seem to be the homologs of the hairs and not the rhizoids in other schizaeaceous genera. Antheridia are likewise scattered and are particularly similar to those of other members of the family. No archegonia were seen. Superficial buds are produced. The internal tissues are entirely parenchymatous and contain fungal hyphae. Phylogenetic and morphological implications are discussed.
Funding Information
  • National Science Foundation (NSF‐G21253)

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