The Florida Museum of Natural History has teamed up with 35 herbarium collections across the U.S. to create the PteridoPortal, an online hub for information on ferns and their relatives.
Ferns, ancient plants that have existed for over 400 million years, are crucial to understanding plant diversity and ecosystems.
This portal gathers digitized data and images from hundreds of thousands of fern specimens stored in museums worldwide. It helps scientists easily access and share information that was once scattered and difficult to obtain.
For example, researchers studying Colombia’s rich fern diversity used the portal to plan fieldwork and update records in real time.
Ferns and lycophytes, which reproduce with spores instead of seeds, were among the first plants to develop roots and leaves. They shaped Earth’s early landscapes and continue to support wildlife today.
The portal also aids conservation by tracking species and their habitats, important as many plants face threats from habitat loss and climate change.
The project highlights the power of digital tools in modern science, making plant data accessible to researchers and the public alike. Future plans include adding interactive identification keys and citizen science features, encouraging broader participation in plant study and protection.
By bringing together collections and knowledge, the PteridoPortal offers a valuable resource for gardeners, students, and scientists interested in ferns and the natural world.
