Caribbean spleenwort
Asplenium rhomboidale
Photo: iNaturalist: (c) Steve Maldonado Silvestrini, some rights reserved (CC BY-NC), uploaded by Steve Maldonado Silvestrini
Overview
The Caribbean spleenwort is a small epiphytic fern with distinctive diamond-shaped (rhomboid) fronds that typically grows 10-30 cm in length. This delicate fern species plays an important ecological role in tropical forest ecosystems by contributing to epiphyte diversity and providing microhabitats for small invertebrates on tree trunks and branches.
Caribbean spleenwort faces significant threats from habitat destruction due to urban development and agricultural expansion across its limited Caribbean range. The species' restricted distribution makes it particularly vulnerable to environmental changes, while invasive plant species compete for suitable growing sites on rocky substrates and forest margins.
Habitat
This fern species typically grows on limestone rocks, cliff faces, and rocky outcrops in tropical dry forests and coastal areas of the Caribbean islands. It can also be found in disturbed habitats such as old walls, road cuts, and forest edges where suitable rocky substrates are available.
Other threatened species in Aspleniaceae
Frequently asked questions
Why is Caribbean spleenwort classified as Vulnerable?
Where does Caribbean spleenwort live?
What are the main threats to Caribbean spleenwort?
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