This is a fascinating mutation that shows a reversal in the light requirement for germination of C-Fern spores. In wild type, light (red) is necessary for spore germination. However, in spores containing the dkg1 mutation, germination occurs readily in the complete absence of light. Use of this mutant allows investigations of gametophyte growth and development to be conducted in the dark or by using specific wavelengths of light without the requirement to expose spores to red or white light to initiate germination. Another interesting aspect of this mutation is that germination in white light is substantially reduced relative to its germination in the dark.

Cooke, T., L. Hickok, W. J. Vanderwoude, J. Banks and R. Scott. 1993. Photobiological characterization of a spore germination mutant with reversed photoregulation in the fern Ceratopteris richardii. Photochem. Photobiol. 57:1032-1041

Cooke, T.J., L. G. Hickok, and M. Sugai. 1995. The fern Ceratopteris richardii as a lower plant model system for studying the genetic regulation of plant photomorphogenesis. International Journal of Plant Science 156:367-373