About Telmatoblechnum serrulatum (Rich.) Perrie, D.J.Ohlsen & Brownsey
This fern shares a general structure with many other ferns: it has a stipe that grows from a rhizome, and pinnae that grow from a rachis. The complete above-ground structure of this plant is called a frond. Fronds of Telmatoblechnum serrulatum are monomorphic, and typically measure 30–50 cm long and 7–16 cm wide. The original description notes that this species can occasionally grow to just over four feet tall. The stipe is cylindrical, usually 10–70 cm long; its base is typically light brown, and sometimes darker brown at the very base. The rhizomes grow horizontally, and may occasionally climb tree trunks; they are covered in dark brown scales. Spores form on the underside of the pinnae, and are typically tan to brown in color. A central costa runs the full length of each pinna. In ecology, this species is most commonly found in freshwater marsh and swamp habitats in tropical or subtropical regions. It can also grow in wet prairies, moist pine woods, and occasionally in forests. Recorded habitats in Florida specifically include moist, shady locations. The native range of this fern extends from Florida through South America; populations have also been recorded in Malaysia and Australia. When growing on coal mine tailings, this species has shown good resistance to lead contamination.
