New records and notes on the genus Phanerophlebia (Dryopteridaceae) in Honduras

Abstract

Abstract: Background and Aims:  The genus Phanerophlebia has been considered as enigmatic among pteridologists. Previous reviews have delimited a total of eight species, only two of which had been reported for Honduras. The objective of this study is to review the species in Honduras and to examine their ecology, habitat, and distribution.Methods: Between March 2018 and February 2019, we reviewed herbarium specimens of Phanerophlebia, and made trips and new collections from previously reported locations in order to understand better the ecology, habitat, and distribution of the Honduran species.Key results: We document the first record for Honduras of Phanerophlebia macrosora and the rare hybrid P. juglandifolia × macrosora. A dichotomous key was constructed for the species reported for the country. Conclusions: Molecular studies of the Honduran species are needed, as well as the effective conservation of the areas where they can be found. Revisions of pteridophytes groups and additional surveys are still necessary to better understand the true diversity of Honduras.