Puerto Rico maiden fern facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Puerto Rico maiden fern |
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The Puerto Rico maiden fern (scientific name: Goniopteris yaucoensis) is a very rare type of fern. It also has another scientific name, Thelypteris yaucoensis, which is like a nickname or an older name for it.
This special fern only grows in Puerto Rico. This means it is endemic to Puerto Rico, found nowhere else in the world. Because it is so rare, it is listed as an endangered species by the United States government. This means it is protected by law to help it survive.
About the Puerto Rico Maiden Fern
The Puerto Rico maiden fern is a unique plant. It is important to protect it because it is part of Puerto Rico's natural heritage. Scientists work hard to make sure this fern does not disappear forever.
Why This Fern Is Special
This fern was officially added to the endangered species list in 1993. At that time, scientists knew of only three places where it grew. Two of these places were in a town called Yauco. The third place was in Ciales, also in Puerto Rico.
When it was first listed, there were only about 65 fern plants known in all three locations combined. This small number shows how rare and special this fern truly is. Protecting these few plants is very important for the species.
What the Fern Looks Like
The Puerto Rico maiden fern grows on the ground. It has long leaves called fronds. These fronds can grow up to 52 centimeters long. That's about the length of a ruler and a half!
Each frond has a blade, which is the flat part of the leaf. This blade is divided into many smaller parts. It usually has 13 to 15 pairs of these smaller segments. This gives the fern a delicate, feathery look.
