This volume outlines all of the phases of the gametophytic generation in ferns such as spore germination and sex organ initiation, from how the gametophyte grows to how it eventually initiates the sporophytic generation. The book discusses these stages in morphological, physiological, cytological and biochemical terms, and, by combining all these perspectives, presents a new view of this interesting developmental process that sheds light on general plant development. Developmental biologists will find this book a useful resource.