A new fern species, Cyrtomium adenotrichum, has been discovered by Chinese researchers in the Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region of south China. Found on a cliff in Nandan County under Hechi City, this rare fern stands at a height of 5 to 15 centimeters and belongs to the Dryopteridaceae family.
Published in the international journal PhytoKeys, the study highlights the unique features of Cyrtomium adenotrichum, particularly its sparsely glandular leaf axis, which sets it apart from other species within the Cyrtomium genus. With only about 10 wild specimens identified, the species has been classified as critically endangered by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List.
Given its rarity and the fragile nature of its habitat, ongoing research will explore the biological, ecological, and medicinal value of this new species. Scientists aim to ensure the preservation of Cyrtomium adenotrichum and further understand its role in the local ecosystem.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
