Columella (botany)

An article about the columella in botany

Columella (botany)

The columella is a central sterile structure found within the sporangium of certain fungi, mosses, and other non-vascular plants. It plays a crucial role in the development and dispersal of spores.

Diagram of a sporangium showing the columella

Structure

In the context of mosses, the columella is a column-like structure that extends through the center of the sporangium, which is the capsule where spores are produced. The columella is typically composed of sterile tissue and is surrounded by the spore-producing cells, known as sporocytes.

In fungi, particularly in the Zygomycota and some Ascomycota, the columella can be found within the sporangium as well. It serves as a support structure and may aid in the even distribution of spores within the sporangium.

Function

The primary function of the columella is to support the structure of the sporangium and to facilitate the development and release of spores. In mosses, the columella helps maintain the shape of the sporangium and may assist in the dehiscence process, where the capsule opens to release spores.

In fungi, the columella can help in the dispersal of spores by providing a framework that allows for the even distribution of spores within the sporangium, ensuring that they are released efficiently when the sporangium ruptures.

Variations

The presence and structure of the columella can vary significantly among different plant and fungal species. In some mosses, the columella is prominent and easily observed, while in others it may be reduced or absent. Similarly, in fungi, the size and shape of the columella can vary, influencing the overall morphology of the sporangium.

Related pages

• Sporangium
• Moss
• Fungi
• Sporophyte