Ascension Island Parsley Fern
Anogramma ascensionis
Photo: Photo: Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA
Overview
Gastoniella ascensionis, the Ascension Island parsley fern, is a species of fern in the family Pteridaceae that is endemic to Ascension Island, a volcanic island in the South Atlantic Ocean. It is one of three species in the genus Gastoniella. It was thought to have become extinct due to habitat loss, until four plants were found on the island in 2010.
Over 60 specimens were then successfully cultivated at Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew and on Ascension Island. It is now classified as Critically Endangered.
Anogramma ascensionis faces severe threats from invasive plant species that outcompete this delicate fern for limited suitable habitat on Ascension Island. The species' extremely restricted range makes it vulnerable to habitat degradation from introduced goats and other herbivores that trample and browse native vegetation. Climate change poses additional risks through altered rainfall patterns that could affect the moist conditions this fern requires for survival.
Habitat
This endemic fern inhabits moist, shaded rocky crevices and cliff faces in the cloud forest zone of Ascension Island's Green Mountain. It requires specific microclimatic conditions with high humidity and protection from direct sunlight, typically growing at elevations where persistent cloud cover provides necessary moisture.
Conservation measures underway
Other threatened species in PTERIDACEAE
Threatened in St. Helena
Frequently asked questions
Why is Ascension Island Parsley Fern classified as Critically Endangered?
Where does Ascension Island Parsley Fern live?
What are the main threats to Ascension Island Parsley Fern?
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