Potato fern
Microgramma tuberosa
Overview
A detailed profile for this species is sourced from the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species as assessments become available.
The potato fern faces severe pressure from deforestation and habitat fragmentation across its Atlantic Forest range, where less than 12% of original forest cover remains. Urban expansion and agricultural conversion continue to eliminate the humid forest environments essential for this epiphytic species. Climate change compounds these threats by altering the moisture regimes and temperature conditions that this specialized fern requires for survival.
Habitat
This epiphytic fern inhabits the humid Atlantic Forest (Mata Atlântica) of southeastern Brazil, growing on tree trunks and branches in the forest canopy and understory. It requires consistently moist conditions and is typically found in primary and well-preserved secondary forests between 200-1,200 meters elevation.
Other threatened species in Polypodiaceae
Threatened in Ecuador
Frequently asked questions
Why is Potato fern classified as Endangered?
Where does Potato fern live?
What are the main threats to Potato fern?
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