Family: Hymenophyllaceae
Author: (L.) Sw.
Bibliography: J. Bot. (Schrader) 1880(2): 99 (1801)
Year: 1801
Status: accepted
Rank: species
Genus: Hymenophyllum
Vegetable: False
Observations: Mexico to Trop. America, Trop. Africa, W. Indian Ocean
Description
The hairy filmy fern, known scientifically as Hymenophyllum hirsutum, is a distinctive member of the Hymenophyllaceae family. First described in 1801 by the botanist (L.) Sw., this delicate fern has captivated the interest of botanists and plant enthusiasts for over two centuries.
This species thrives primarily in tropical regions, with a distribution range extending from Mexico through Central and South America, reaching into the tropical zones of Africa, and also including parts of the western Indian Ocean. Such widespread habitation suggests a remarkable adaptability to different tropical climates and ecological conditions.
One of the most striking features of the hairy filmy fern is its delicate, almost translucent leaves, which give it an ethereal appearance. The foliage is covered in fine, hair-like structures, which contribute not only to its common name but also aid in its distinctive texture and appearance. These hairs may play a role in moisture retention, helping the plant to thrive in its often humid habitats.
Typically found in shaded forest environments, the hairy filmy fern prefers moist, well-drained soil with ample organic matter, resembling the conditions of the forest understory. Its affinity for such environments indicates a preference for high humidity and low light conditions, making it an ideal candidate for those seeking to recreate a tropical forest ambiance in botanical gardens or specialized collections.
The biodiversity and ecological significance of Hymenophyllum hirsutum cannot be understated. As a member of the Hymenophyllaceae family, it plays a role in forest ecosystems by contributing to soil stability and providing habitat for various microorganisms. Its presence in diverse geographical regions highlights its importance in the ecological web and the interconnectedness of tropical ecosystems.
Studying the hairy filmy fern offers insights into the adaptability and survival strategies of ferns in tropical environments. It stands as a testament to the beauty and complexity of plant life, inspiring both scientific study and admiration for its intricate form and resilience.
Common Names
Eng: hairy filmy fern
En: Hairy filmy fern
Synonyms
- Trichomanes hirsutum (L.)
- Hymenophyllum microcarpon (Fée)
- Hymenophyllum intermedium (Mett.)
- Hymenophyllum ciliatum var. abbreviatum (Rosenst.)
- Trichomanes ciliatum (Sw.)
- Hymenophyllum ciliatum var. crispatum (Baker)
- Hymenophyllum ciliatum var. nudipes (Kunze)
- Hymenophyllum ciliatum var. boryanum ((Willd.) Mett.)
- Hymenophyllum ciliatum ((Sw.) Sw.)
- Trichomanes hispidum (Poir.)
- Hymenophyllum ciliatum var. imbricatum (Bonap.)
- Hymenophyllum ciliatum var. ornifolium ((Rchb.) Kunze)
- Sphaerocionium asterothrix (Fée)
- Hymenophyllum arbuscula (Desv.)
- Hymenophyllum fraseri (Mett.)
- Sphaerocionium grevilleanum (C.Presl)
- Hymenophyllum ciliatum f. tuberosum (Rosenst.)
- Sphaerocionium boryanum (C.Presl)
- Hymenophyllum ornifolium (Rchb.)
- Sphaerocionium commutatum (C.Presl)
- Hymenophyllum angustatum (Thouars)
- Hymenophyllum gardnerianum (Sturm.)
- Hymenophyllum vestitum ((C.Presl) Bosch)
- Hymenophyllum caulopteron (Fée)
- Sphaerocionium vestitum (C.Presl)
- Hymenophyllum elatius (Christ)
- Hymenophyllum remotum (Bosch)
- Hymenophyllum dimorphum (Christ)
- Hymenophyllum boryanum (Willd.)
- Hymenophyllum surinamense (Bosch)
- Hymenophyllum boutonii (Baker)
- Hymenophyllum commutatum (Bosch)
- Sphaerocionium dimorphum ((Christ) Pic.Serm.)
- Sphaerocionium ciliatum ((Sw.) C.Presl)
- Sphaerocionium hirsutum ((L.) C.Presl)
Distribution
- Belize (native)
- Bolivia (native)
- Brazil North (native)
- Brazil Northeast (native)
- Brazil South (native)
- Brazil Southeast (native)
- Cameroon (native)
- Central African Repu (native)
- Colombia (native)
- Comoros (native)
- Costa Rica (native)
- Cuba (native)
- Dominican Republic (native)
- Ecuador (native)
- Equatorial Guinea (native)
- Ethiopia (native)
- French Guiana (native)
- Gabon (native)
- Galápagos (native)
- Ghana (native)
- Guatemala (native)
- Gulf of Guinea Is. (native)
- Guyana (native)
- Haiti (native)
- Honduras (native)
- Ivory Coast (native)
- Jamaica (native)
- Leeward Is. (native)
- Liberia (native)
- Madagascar (native)
- Mauritius (native)
- Mexico Central (native)
- Mexico Gulf (native)
- Mexico Southeast (native)
- Mexico Southwest (native)
- Mozambique (native)
- Nicaragua (native)
- Panamá (native)
- Peru (native)
- Puerto Rico (native)
- Réunion (native)
- Seychelles (native)
- Suriname (native)
- Tanzania (native)
- Trinidad-Tobago (native)
- Uganda (native)
- Venezuela (native)
- Windward Is. (native)
- Zaïre (native)
Additional Images
Leaf
Taken Apr 17, 2019 by OTS – J. González (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Apr 17, 2019 by OTS – J. González (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken May 7, 2022 by Rep TRY (cc-by-sa)
Taken May 7, 2022 by Rep TRY (cc-by-sa)
Taken Dec 13, 2017 by Hugo SANTACREU (cc-by-sa)
Habit
Taken Apr 17, 2019 by OTS – J. González (cc-by-nc-sa)
Taken Dec 13, 2017 by Hugo SANTACREU (cc-by-sa)
Bark
Taken Nov 1, 2020 by aizawa chieko (cc-by-sa)
Taken Apr 17, 2019 by OTS – J. González (cc-by-nc-sa)
Flower
Taken Nov 23, 2010 by Tela Botanica − Liliane Roubaudi (cc-by-sa)
Taken Apr 17, 2019 by OTS – J. González (cc-by-nc-sa)
© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
© copyright of the Board of Trustees of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew.
Sources
- WFO (No URL)
- IPNI (No URL)
- GBIF (https://www.gbif.org/species/2651289)
- POWO (http://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:1131831-2)
- PlantNet (https://identify.plantnet.org/species/the-plant-list/Hymenophyllum hirsutum (L.) Sw.)
Specifications
Growth habit>: Forb/herb