Phenology of
Limestone adder’s-tongue (Ophioglossum engelmannii ):
Ophioglossaceae in Collin
County, Texas
Limestone
adder’s-tongue is the only native fern species reported to Collin County and
is only known from a single population.
Because of it’s small size and limited distribution, the status of this
fern is classified as “not ranked/under review” at both the state and
national level. This relatively
small and unusual fern produces a leaf that consists of two parts -
a vegetative portion that appears first and a reproductive, spore-bearing
structure that appears later. The
above ground portions typically die after a few weeks.
The first specimen documenting its presence was collected in March 2003
from a population consisting of approximately 400 plants in an area 1 meter wide
and 5 meters long. Population
density, dates and numbers of plants at various stages of development are being
monitored.
