Locality: Bhutan (27.332740, 90.439450)

Abstract: This checklist is being updated to follow current taxonomic nomenclature, however, is not yet exhaustive and a work in progress (last update 7/13/2021). Currently, a total of 537 species (553 taxa) of ferns in 110 genera, and 30 families comprise this checklist. More pteridophyte species are likely to be encountered and specimens collected, possibly new species, as further detailed studies are carried out. The list was initially based on literature review and was later authenticated through examination of more than 2200 herbarium specimens and additional unprocessed field collections. Currently, 399 taxa have been collected, identified, georeferenced, and preserved in the Bhutan National Herbarium (THIM). This checklist includes links to all of the databased specimens. Digital photographs are presented when available and are being continuously added.

The Bhutan Himalaya forms a substantial part of the Eastern Himalaya with a huge elevation gradient from the low southern foothills with sub-tropical forests to the high northern Himalayas with alpine meadows. Its high variations of climatic and geographic factors contribute to high biodiversity. Over 5600 species of vascular plants occur in Bhutan, of which 423 are orchids including 54 species of new records (Gurung 2006) and some 46 species of Rhododendron (Flora of Bhutan 1991). The family of orchids, Orchidaceae, is the largest, followed by Poaceae, the grass family. Unlike neighboring states of India and Nepal, pteridophytes of Bhutan have remained largely unstudied.

References:
Fraser-Jenkins, C.R., Matsumoto, S. & Wangdi, T., in Fraser-Jenkins, C.R. (ed.). 2009. Pteridophytes of Bhutan - A list of families, genera and species: i-x, 1-125. National Biodiversity Centre, Ministry of Agriculture, Serbithang, Thimphu, Bhutan.

POWO. 2019. Plants of the World Online. Facilitated by the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew. Published on the Internet; http://www.plantsoftheworldonline.org/ Last Retrieved 31-12-2020.

Project supported by the United States Fulbright Program, Washington, D.C. (2017). The Fulbright Program is the flagship international educational exchange program sponsored by the U.S. Government.