Abstract Detail

Pteridological Section/AFS

Vernon, Amanda [1], Ranker, Tom A. [1].

A Lucid-based Interactive Identification Key of the Hawaiian Ferns and Lycophytes: Preliminary Data.

The Hawaiian Islands are well known for having one of the highest documented percentages of endemic plants in the world. Hawaiian ferns and lycophytes represent a relatively large percentage of the endemic flora, but few complete reviews focusing on identification have been published. Approximately 77% of the Hawaiian fern and lycophyte taxa are considered endemic. In addition, at least 33 species are naturalized aliens. Over half of these naturalized species have become common and abundant and therefore have invasive potential. To prevent the spread of invasive ferns and preserve native ecosystems it is critical that species be identified correctly and quickly. Current identification is difficult due to old nomenclature, few illustrations, and esoteric terminology. As the number of fern and lycophyte species increases and taxonomic changes occur, a more efficient and easily accessible method of identification is needed to help slow the introduction of alien taxa and to preserve native ecosystems.
An interactive identification key (IIK) of the Hawaiian ferns and lycophytes can provide students, ecologists, and land managers with a better method of identification. I am preparing an IIK for all 221 taxa of Hawaiian ferns and lycophytes using Lucid v.3.3 software. The IIK includes all previously recorded native and naturalized taxa and incorporates newly described species and recently discovered naturalized species. To assist in identification, multiple images of diagnostic characters are being compiled and added to the key. Fact sheets will be composed using Fact Sheet Fusion software. The IIK will be freely available through the University of Hawai‘i’s website, additional institutions, and botanical gardens.

Broader Impacts:

1 - University of Hawaii at Manoa, Department of Botany, 3190 Maile Way, Room 101, Honolulu, HI, 96822, USA

Keywords:
Key
identification
Hawaiian Islands
interactive key.

Presentation Type: Poster:Posters for Sections
Session: P
Location: Hall A/Convention Center
Date: Monday, August 2nd, 2010
Time: 5:30 PM
Number: PPD001
Abstract ID:59