Abstract: The development of fern resources is attracting more attention in recent years, however, current spore reproductive technology is immature, and has become a bottleneck. We cultured the spores of four typical ferns, including Blechnum orientale, Matteuccia struthiopteris, Ceratopteris thalictroides and Adiantum malesianum, observed spore propagation characteristics and time of the gametophyte development at each stage. By compiling the reported data, we analyzed the culture conditions, such as light and temperature, in four key development stages, including spore germination, and the formation of prothalli, sexual organs, and juvenile sporophyte. Longer illumination time may promote spore germination. Higher light intensity may prolong the formation of prothallus. Growth rate and temperature had no correlation during gametophyte formation in 20-25℃. Our research is useful for establishing the system of fern propagation and may promote the exploration of fern resources.

Key words: pteridophyte, spore propagation, resource development, environmental factor