Cyathodium foetidissimum Schiffn.

국표에 없다.

Cyathodium foetidissimum: The Unforgettable Stinkhorn Fern

Cyathodium foetidissimum, commonly known as the Stinkhorn Fern, is a fascinating plant that belongs to the larger family of ferns. Though its common name might raise eyebrows, this remarkable plant harbors secrets that are less malodorous and more delightful than one might think. In this article, we will delve into the intriguing world of the Stinkhorn Fern, exploring its growth habits, habitat, ecological importance, and more.

Overview

Many plant enthusiasts recognize Cyathodium foetidissimum for its unique characteristics and unusual name. This fern species is native to tropical areas, where it thrives in humid environments. Its distinctive fronds, which exude a slightly pungent aroma when mature, have earned it the moniker “Stinkhorn.” However, this name does not fully encapsulate the charm and ecological significance of this fascinating plant.

Physical Characteristics

Cyathodium foetidissimum features a lush canopy of delicate, feathery fronds that can grow up to 20 inches long. Each frond consists of numerous leaflets, creating an attractive fern-like appearance. The undersides of the fronds often exhibit a slightly hairy texture, which can be a distinguishing feature.

Identifiable Traits

• Fronds: The fronds of Cyathodium foetidissimum are highly pinnate and feathery, which gives them a soft, flowing look.
• Spore Cases: The spore cases, located on the underside of the fronds, are shaped like small cups and contain the reproductive spores.
• Coloration: Typically, the fronds boast a vibrant green color, adding a pop of life to its surrounding environment.
• Odor: Mature plants emit a distinct, earthy smell that some may find unpleasant; this scent attracts various insects for pollination.

Ecological Significance

Cyathodium foetidissimum plays an essential role in its habitat. The plant is a host for diverse insects and helps maintain local biodiversity. Its fronds provide shelter for small creatures and contribute to the overall ecosystem health by participating in nutrient cycling.

(Cyathodium foetidissimum) - Botanical Realm

General Information

Thallus light green, delicate, elongate, dichotomously branched, 4-17 mm long, 1-6 mm wide; marginal cells chlorophyllose, quadrate to short-rectangular, oil cells triangular. Dorsal epidermis delicate, without trigones, chlorophyllose, cells (15-) 20-37.5 µm long, (15-) 18-30 µm wide, oil cells smaller, 15 µm long, 19-23 µm wide, with a single, hyaline to grayish oil body. Epidermal pores simple, smaller toward apex, surrounded by 3-4 irregular rows of elongate cells, these with minute chloroplasts. Ventral epidermis chlorophyllose, chloroplasts smaller than those of dorsal epidermis, cells polygonal, larger than those of upper epidermis 75-160 µm long, (24-)33-68(-75) µm wide. Midrib (= central multistratose area) present. Rhizoids abundant, long, and colorless, of 2 types, narrow and strongly tuberculate, or wide and smooth, basal rhizoid area brownish. Ventral scales large, multicellular, long-rectangular to irregularly deltoid, 4-7 cells wide, 7-8(-12) cells long, with oil cells in idioblasts. Monoecious. Antheridial receptacles sessile in apical sinus, cushion-shaped, oval to oblong, flanked on both sides by archegonia. Archegonia on both sides of male receptacle, enclosed by sinuous laminar involucre. Sporophytes with a short seta, 0.6-0.8 mm in diam., dark brown, operculum of 12 cells, projecting into the capsule cavity; cells in upper 1/2-1/3 of capsule, below operculum, with tangential bar thickenings, lowermost cells smooth. Spores dark brown, subtriangular in shape, verrucose-tuberculate 31-42 |im in longest diam, (not including verrucae). Elaters 390-600 µm long, 12-15 µm wide, with 3 thickened bands, attenuated at apex.

Cyathodium foetidissimum Schiffn. (worldfloraonline.org)

Cyathodium foetidissimum. A-B. Plants in their natural habitat. Dh = Dumortiera hirsuta, Dn = Dumortiera hirsuta subsp. nepalensis (Tayl.) Schust. C. Idioblasts (arrows) on cells of thallus. D. Pore on upper surface of thallus. (A-B from Salazar Allen et al. 17047; C-D from Salazar Allen 20627). 

Cyathodium foetidissimum (Marchantiales), An Asiatic Species New to Tropical America (bioone.org)

 

https://youtu.be/R6rXxY4Nir8