Male fern gametophytes can develop when nearby

 

Exclusively male fern gametophytes can develop when nearby, older, hermaphrodite gametophytes of the same species secrete chemicals (antheridiogens). Antheridiogens will promote nearby gametophytes of the same species to develop antheridia and inhibit formation of archegonia. Therefore, these nearby gametophytes have the genetic capability of forming antheridia and archegonia but will form only antheridia. What are two survival advantages of older fern gametophytes producing antheridiogens?

 

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