PlantaeHighest rank in taxonomy. Groups all life into domains: Animalia, Plantae, Fungi, etc.IUCN LCInternational Union for Conservation of Nature — the world authority on species extinction risk, using standardized criteria. — Least Concern — widespread and abundant; not at immediate risk of extinction.In ProgressCurrent stage of this record in the editorial review workflow. Recent Sighting
Blechnum appendiculatum
Hammock Fern
Willd., 1810
Detailed Texts Multi-lang
A small to medium-sized terrestrial fern featuring a creeping or short-erect rhizome. Its pinnatifid fronds are lanceolate, slightly glossy, and display a distinctive reddish-pink coloration on delicate young emergent fronds before turning vibrant green.
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Anonymous Curator
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Under Review
Last modified by
Julia Trouin
TaxonomyBiological classification ranks placing this species within the tree of life, from Kingdom down to Genus.
PhylumRank below Kingdom. Groups organisms sharing a fundamental body plan (e.g., Chordata = vertebrates and some invertebrates).Tracheophyta
ClassRank below Phylum. Subdivides by structural traits (e.g., Mammalia, Aves, Reptilia, Insecta).Polypodiopsida
OrderRank below Class. Groups related families sharing common ancestry (e.g., Carnivora, Primates).Polypodiales
FamilyRank below Order. Groups closely related genera (e.g., Felidae = cats, Canidae = dogs).Blechnaceae
GenusRank just above Species. The first word in the two-part binomial scientific name.Blechnum
Taxonomic AuthorityThe scientist who first formally described and published this species, followed by the year of publication.Willd., 1810
Record Completeness
85%Coming soon
Ecology & StatusHow this species lives: habitat preferences, diet, behavior, population status, and role in its ecosystem.
OriginWhether the species is native (evolved here), endemic (found only here), or introduced by human activity.
Native
Population TrendDirection of change in population size over time: increasing, stable, decreasing, or unknown.
Stable
Trophic RolePosition in the food chain: producer, herbivore, carnivore, omnivore, decomposer, or parasite.
Herbivore
Growth HabitPhysical form and structure of the plant: tree, shrub, herb, vine, epiphyte, aquatic, etc.
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Leaf TypeLeaf characteristics: deciduous (seasonal shed), evergreen, simple, compound, needle-like, etc.
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Flowering SeasonTime of year when this species typically reproduces or flowers.
Year Round
Recent SightingsWhether this species has been observed in the wild in Costa Rica within recent years.
Yes
Habitat SummaryOverview of the specific ecosystems and environments where this species is found in Costa Rica. Multi-lang
Commonly grows on shaded banks, rocky limestone slopes, ravines, and moist forest floors. It is widespread in subtropical and tropical regions of the Americas, establishing well in disturbed, damp environments.Light & Water NeedsSunlight intensity and moisture levels this plant needs to grow and reproduce successfully. Multi-lang
Information not available in English. Help us expand this record!BehaviourDaily activity patterns, movement, territory use, foraging style, and seasonal behavioral changes. Multi-lang
An adaptable, low-growing herbaceous plant that stabilizes soil surfaces. It reacts dynamically to moisture availability, curling its fronds slightly during short dry spells to minimize water loss.Toxicity / UsesToxic compounds present and their documented effects on humans or other organisms. Multi-lang
Information not available in English. Help us expand this record!Physical Measures
Length (cm)
15.0 - 65.0 cm
Reproductive StructuresFlowers, fruits, and seeds — the reproductive organs and their seasonal appearance.
Flower Photos (Max 2)
No imageFruit Photos (Max 2)
No imageEvolutionary AdaptationsInherited traits and behaviors that improve the species' survival and reproduction in its specific environment. Multi-lang
Produces stoloniferous runners that allow the plant to spread horizontally rapidly, anchoring effectively on steep, erodible banks and rocky substrates.
The young reddish fronds contain anthocyanin pigments that protect the developing photosynthetic apparatus from solar damage and discourage herbivory.
Main ThreatsDocumented pressures reducing the population: habitat loss, hunting, disease, climate change, and invasive species. Multi-lang
Loss of microhabitats due to intensive urbanization, clear-cutting of canopy trees, and severe prolonged droughts that deplete surface soil moisture.
Displacement in certain ecosystems by invasive exotic weeds that outcompete low-lying understory native flora for nutrients and light.
Interesting FactsSurprising or notable facts that highlight what makes this species unique or ecologically important. Multi-lang
This fern displays dimorphic-like behavior in its leaves; although structurally similar, fertile fronds grow more upright and taller than sterile ones to maximize spore dispersal via wind.