Indicative distribution
The areas shown in pink and/purple are the sub-regions where the species or community is known or predicted to occur. They may not occur thoughout the sub-region but may be restricted to certain areas.
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click here to see geographic restrictions).
The information presented in this map is only indicative and may contain errors and omissions.
Scientific name: Psilotum complanatum
Profile last updated:
17 Sep 2019
Description
The Flat Fork Fern is a bright green, almost leafless epiphyte, anchored by its creeping roots in collections of rotting leaf-litter in trees, in the fibrous base of other epiphytic ferns, or sometimes in rock crevices. Some become quite large, with branches hanging down as much as 1 m. The flat branches fork repeatedly, bearing tiny scale-like leaves and yellow, round spore-producing organs at intervals along their sides.
Distribution
Found in moist tropical areas in Queensland, the Pacific and tropical America. In NSW, there is a historic record for Ballina but it has not been seen for many years and may be extinct in NSW.
Habitat and ecology
- Grows in moist tropical or subtropical rainforest, or moist eucalypt forest.
Regional distribution and habitat
Click on a region below to view detailed distribution, habitat and vegetation information.
Threats
- Destruction of rainforest and moist forest habitats in coastal areas, for agriculture and development.
- Invasion of habitat by introduced weeds.
- Risk of extinction because numbers are low.
- Lack of information on the species in NSW to inform a conservation management strategy
Recovery strategies
A Saving Our Species conservation project is currently being developed for this species and will be available soon. For information on how you can contribute to this species' recovery, see the Activities to assist this species section below.
Activities to assist this species
- Support local Landcare groups and bush regeneration teams.
- Control introduced weeds in rainforest and moist eucalypt forests.
- Protect rainforest and moist forest habitats from clearing or development.
- Expand and connect rainforest and moist eucalypt forest habitats.
- Notify the DECCW of any records of Flat Fork Fern in NSW.
Information sources
- NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service (2002) Threatened Species of the Upper North Coast of NSW: Flora. (NSW NPWS, Coffs Harbour)
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