A Generic Classification of the Thelypteridaceae

Résumé du livre

The generic taxonomy of the Thelypteridaceae has proven to be exceptionally controversial, with some authors recognizing upwards of 30 genera, while others have treated the nearly 1200 species within a single genus, Thelypteris. With the benefit of a 600-taxon phylogenomic dataset and access to thousands of herbarium specimens, the authors have provided a revised generic classification that recognizes monophyletic genera. The present work includes the recircumscription of 14 genera, descriptions of four genera and three subgenera, and 176 new names. A dichotomous key, and detailed morphological description of each of the 37 genera recognized by the authors is provided, including a diagnosis, a discussion of previous taxonomic and phylogenetic studies, notes on ecology and biogeography, and a list of constituent species. Thirty-two original pen and ink illustrations and 15 color photographs provide examples of critical characteristics necessary for keying, and these represent much of the taxonomic and morphological diversity within the family. Extensive introductory material covers the history of classification in the group and provides a discussion on morphology, cytology, hybridization, fossil evidence, biogeography, and prior phylogenetic studies. This book will be a useful reference for professional and amateur botanists alike-all those hoping to familiarize themselves with one of the most diverse fern families. For anyone wanting to identify and classify ferns, especially in the most biodiverse and imperiled ecosystems, this will be an invaluable tool.