An Alternative Taxonomy for Serpocaulon (Polypodiaceae) from Southern and Southeastern Brazil

American Fern Journal 2026 Open access

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Authors: Pedro B. Schwartsburd, Jefferson Prado, Regina Y. Hirai, Paulo H. Labiak
DOI: 10.1640/0002-8444-116.1.62
Cited by: 0
References: 14

Abstract

We present an alternative taxonomic treatment of Serpocaulon from southern and southeastern Brazil. Eighteen species are recognized for these regions, 14 of which are endemics. They are: S. catharinae, S. demissum, S. glandulosissimum, S. hirsutulum, S. laetum, S. latipes, S. menisciifolium, S. mexiae, S. pectinans comb. nov. (rescued from synonymy), S. pictum comb. nov. (rescued from synonymy), S. polystichum, S. pratorum sp. nov., S. pubescens (recognized as a species, not a hybrid), S. rex, S. simplicifolium sp. nov., S. swartziifolium sp. nov., S. triseriale, and S. vacillans. We present a key to species, descriptions, illustrations, and lists of examined specimens. We also present some putative hybrid specimens.

Fields of Study & Subjects

Fern and Epiphyte Biology Bryophyte Studies and Records Plant Diversity and Evolution

Publication details

Journal / source
American Fern Journal
Volume
116
Issue
1
Pages
62–106
Publication date
24 February 2026
Language
EN