Most activities use the wild type C-Fern (RNWT1) spores also known as the C-Fern Standard Genotype. Refer to Mutants and Strategies for Mutant Selection for the many other strains derived from the wild type useful for investigations in development, genetics, physiology, and ecology. Below is a listing of commercially available strains.
| Genotype | Code | Description |
| wild type | RNWT1 | Basic C-Fern genotype |
| maleless | her1 | Does not form male gametophytes. Insensitive to the male-inducing pheromone |
| F1 polka dot | cp/CP | F1 gametophytes segregate in a ratio of 1 wild type to 1 polka dot. F2 sporophytes segregate in a ratio of 3 wild type to 1 polka dot. |
