Hecistopteris pumila (Spreng.) J.Sm.
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Authority
Mickel, John T. & Smith, Alan R. 2004. The pteridophytes of Mexico. Mem. New York Bot. Gard. 88: 1-1054.
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Family
Pteridaceae
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Scientific Name
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Description
Species Description - Rhizome scales linear, 1–1.5 x 0.1 mm; fronds clumped, 1–2 cm long, monomorphic or somewhat dimorphic, the fertile usually larger; stipes 1/3–2/3 the frond length; blades 1–2-forked at the tip; sori along the distal portions of the veins; paraphyses uniseriate, 0.3 mm long; spores whitish green.
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Discussion
Gymnogramma pumila Spreng., Syst. Veg. Tent. Suppl. 31. 1828. Type. Surinam. Weigelt s.n. (LZ, destroyed; isotypes B!, P!; probable isotype UC!).
Because of its small size this species is difficult to find, and may be more widespread than current records indicate. It is colonial in nature, by virtue of proliferous thread-like roots that give rise to new plants. It is not easily confused with any other fern species.
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Distribution
Epiphytic or on fallen logs in wet undisturbed forests of Atlantic slope; 400–600 m. Mexico; Guat, Bel, Hond, Nic, CR, Pan; Gr & L Ant; Col, Ven, Trin, Guy, Sur, Fr Gui, Ec, Peru, Braz, Bol.
Mexico North America| Bolivia South America| Brazil South America| Peru South America| Amazonas Ecuador South America| French Guiana South America| Guyana South America| Trinidad and Tobago South America| Venezuela South America| Amazonas Colombia South America| West Indies| Panama Central America| Puntarenas Costa Rica Central America| Nicaragua Central America| Honduras Central America| Belize Central America| Guatemala Central America|