Secrets beneath the soil: recovery of fern spores as a strategy of biodiversity conservation in Punta Lara Nature Reserve (PLNR), Argentina

Abstract The recovery of soil spores is a strategy to strengthen in decline or disappeared populations from natural environments. In this work, we analyzed 25 samples extracted patch gallery forest an “albardón” Punta Lara Reserve, Buenos Aires. were distributed 50 Petri dishes, exposed controlled temperature and light another kept darkness. To contribute the identification gametophytes sporophytes, local species cultured vitro. 18 months trial, appearance sporophytes was observed, greater proportion those belonging dominant community: Doryopteris concolor. Numerous Gastoniella chaerophylla also obtained, taxon not found for two years. germination index (GI) estimated morphological characteristics recorded. This first contribution knowledge spore banks Argentina, protected area where several threats put at risk survival native species. bases implement methods ex situ conservation ferns are provided.