Ferns and Fern-Allies of Arunachal Pradesh (In 2 Volumes)

The present book is an attempt to contribute towards a better understanding of the systematics, phytogeography and related complexities among the pteridophytic plants in one of the biodiversity rich areas in India, i.e. Arunachal Pradesh. The book deals with 305 taxa of the ferns and fern-allies out of an estimated 1100 species of the pteridophytes reported from India, of these more than half occur in this part of the country alone. The detailed taxonomic study on lower group of vascular plants occurring in the virgin tropical wet evergreen forests in Arunachal Pradesh assumes great significance. The area, lying at the meeting point of Sino-Japanese, Indian and Continental of S.E. Asia phytogeographical realms, has attracted several workers/explorers from time to time. However, botanically several parts of the region are still terra incognita. Ecologically as well as biologically the present study assumes significance as this region is also part of the micro-endemic center overlapping with Burmese, Chinese and Sino-Japanese. The book reports several neo-endemics and extension of distribution range. Key Features of the Book: Classificatory systems at familial and generic levels have been critically evaluated in the light of evidence presently available to us. Nomenclatural issues at family, generic and species level have been discussed; Forty eight new taxa have been described. Latin diagnoses and photographs of Holotype/Isotype/Paratype have been provided. Type and/or authentic specimens, or photographs of such material available at CAL and other herbaria have been studied and cited. Observations and our opinion/suggestions in the form of ‘note(s)’ have been provided appropriately; Original illustrations and detailed description of habit, fronds, details of dermal appendages, sori, sporangium, spores etc. of all the 305 taxa have been provided; Workable keys for identification of families, genera and species have been provided. As and when required key to the related species, not occurring in the area, is also provided; Latest nomenclature for each taxon has been provided. Critical comments, views on nomenclatural complexes etc. specifically at generic level have been offered. This provides strength to the present treatment.