Abstract:
Sporocarps, megaspores, and micro- spores of Azolla filiculoides are described from fresh fertile material from the South Island of New Zealand. Size estimates are given along with light and scanning electron microscope photographs. A brief discussion of spore morphology, perine substructure, and leaf trichomes is given with regard to the taxonomy of A. filiculoides and A. rubra. Differences between these taxa with regard to sporoderm substructure and the presence of filaments on the collar of the megaspore support their separation but may be considered insufficient to justify maintaining taxonomic separation beyond varietal status for rubra.