Abstract: The development of gametophytes of Dryopteris fragrans (L.) Schott was studied. The results showed that the spores are monolete,elliotical in polar view and semicircle in equatoral view. The germination is of the Vittara-type, and the germ filament developes 2～9 cells long. The apical cells are obvious. Prothallial plate is multicellular plate. Apical meristem still divide and develop to young prothallus. The prothallus is of the Aspidium-type. Quantity of hair is large,and each is unicellular. The antheridia and archegonia are smaller, and seem to develop at the same time. The adult prothallus are cordate-thalloid. It appears that the gametophytes of Dryopterisfragrans (L.)Schott possess some evolving characteristics of the fern.

Key words: Dryopteris fragrans (L.)Schott, prothallus, gametophyte development