The Conservation of Polyribosomes in the MossTortula ruralisduring Total Desiccation

Abstract

Total desiccation of the moss Tortula ruralis was achieved by placing it in a dry atmosphere for 90 min. Reintroduction of the moss to water resulted in the recovery of its normal morphological form within 15–30 s. The sedimentation profile on a sucrose gradient of the ribosomal content of the totally dry moss shows the presence of distinct polyribosomal peaks. The levels of these polyribosomes rise upon rehydration of the moss. The difference between the tolerance to water deficit by this moss and by higher plants is outlined.