The homosporous fern, Ophioglossum reticulatum, possesses the highest number of chromosomes among all known plants, animals, and fungi, with over 1400 chromosomes.
Chromosome Count Comparison
For better understanding, here's a comparison:
| Organism | Approximate Number of Chromosomes |
|---|---|
| Ophioglossum reticulatum | Over 1400 |
| Humans | 46 (23 pairs) |
Understanding Chromosomes
Chromosomes are structures within cells that carry genes. Each species has a unique number of chromosomes.
- Diploid: Most human cells are diploid, meaning they have two sets of chromosomes, one from each parent.
- Haploid: Sex cells (sperm and egg) are haploid, containing only one set of chromosomes.
Why is Ophioglossum reticulatum an Exception?
- The high chromosome count in Ophioglossum reticulatum is unusual and not fully understood.
- It's a remarkable example of the diversity in chromosome numbers across living organisms.
- Unlike humans and many other organisms, where chromosome count is relatively consistent, some ferns show a wide range in numbers.
Key Takeaway
The fern Ophioglossum reticulatum has more chromosomes than any other organism studied to date, surpassing even humans by a significant margin.
