Lygodiumaceae

Lygodiaceae is a family of ferns comprising a single genus, Lygodium. These ferns are commonly known as climbing or rambling ferns. They are characterized by their scandent fronds, which means they have a climbing growth habit, often twining around other vegetation or structures for support. The leaves of Lygodium are dimorphic, meaning they have two different forms. Sterile fronds are typically broader and softer, while fertile fronds are narrower and bear sporangia on the undersides of their leaflets. The sporangia are globose and subtended by an indusium, which is a protective covering. Lygodium species are found in tropical and subtropical regions worldwide, often in disturbed habitats such as roadsides, clearings, and forest edges. Some species can be invasive in certain areas due to their vigorous growth and ability to outcompete native vegetation. Reproduction in Lygodium involves spores, which are produced in the sporangia on the fertile fronds. Upon germination, these spores develop into small, heart-shaped gametophytes. Fertilization of the gametophyte leads to the development of a new sporophyte, the familiar fern plant. The family Lygodiaceae is part of the order Schizaeales, which also includes other fern families with distinctive sporangium structures.