Tona Shemesh

Fishtail Fern - Microsorum punctatum var. Grandiceps

These are young fronds of the commonly named Fishtail Fern or Dwarf Elkhorn Fern, Microsorum punctatum var. Grandiceps (Polypodiales - Polypodiaceae), an epiphytic fern native to Africa, Asia, Malaysia, New Guinea, Australia and Polynesia.

This cultivar is distinctive by its light green, glossy fronds are strap-like and leathery with entire or wavy leaf margin. The frond consists of a single blade that forks into 2 parts repeatedly, forming a crested tip that resembles a fish’s tail or an elk horn. The midrib is raised and highly prominent.

References: [1] - [2]

Anhinga aka "Water Turkey“ aka American Darter (Anhinga anhinga), male in breeding plumage, family Anhingidae, order Suliformes, Orlando Wetlands, FL, USA

How beautiful!