A new grass fern: Actinostachys minuta

The grass ferns (Schizaeaceae) are a family of ferns mainly found in the tropics. Most of them are rather small plants and the new species is a so-called epiphyte which means it grows on the trunk of a tree fern. It was found on Mindanao Island, Philippines. The species name refers to is small size even compared to other members of the genus. 

For the experts: Actinostachys minuta Amoroso & Coritico (Schizaeaceae), from Mindanao, Philippines, is described herein as a new species. This species is distinguished from all other species of Actinostachys (grass ferns) by its notably short and narrow fronds, distinct triangular stipe, and bifid apex of the sorophore lamina with profuse white long hairs. This species is distinct from the other known Philippine species of Actinostachys by its diminutive epiphytic habit and a habitat restricted to the trunks of the tree fern Sphaeropteris polypoda (Baker) R.M.Tryon. A taxonomic key to the species of Philippine Schizaeaceae that incorporates the new species is provided.