Palhinhaea cernua

Matos, Fernando B., Bohn, Amabily & Labiak, Paulo H., 2020, The ferns and lycophytes of Reserva Natural Guaricica, Antonina, Paraná, Brazil, Check List 16 (1), pp. 183-206 : 191-193

Palhinhaea cernua (L.) Franco & Vasc.

Figures 3A, 4A

Examined material. BRAZIL • 2 specimens; Trilha da Guaricica ; 25°19′13″S, 048°42′04″W; alt. 30 m; 15 Jan. 2005; F.B. Matos 185 leg.; MBM333021, UPCB10699 • 2 specimens; Fazenda Rincão ; 25°18′53″S, 048°41′46″W; alt. 20 m; 1 Mar. 2005; F.B. Matos & U. Ferreira 464 leg.; MBM333022, UPCB10700 • 3 specimens; Faisqueira ; 25°22′14″S, 048°39′56″W; alt. 15 m; 7 Oct. 2005; F.B. Matos & P.B. Schwartsburd 857 leg.; CEPEC118605, RB726314, UPCB10781 • 1 specimen; Fazenda da SPVS; 25°18′S, 048°41′W; alt. 40 m; 20 Oct. 2003; P.H. Labiak & R. Goldenberg 3015 leg.; UPCB10786 .

Identification. Characterized by anisotomously branched

stems, the branches differentiated into horizontal sto- lon-like stems and vertical tree-like stems. The tree-like stems are usually erect and crowded with small (ca 3 mm) linear leaves, with spreading lateral branches ending in sessile, pendent, cylindrical strobili. Sporangia globose, anisovalvate, solitary in the axil of sporophylls. Plants homosporous. It is the only species of the genus in the RPPN.

Distribution and habitat. Pantropical. Terrestrial on roadbanks and other disturbed places.