Cystopteridaceae

plant family

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Last updated

July 21, 2026

Quick Summary

Cystopteridaceae is a family of ferns characterized by small to medium-sized plants with thin leaves. Their sori (clusters of sporangia) are small, round, and lack indusia (protective coverings). This family includes three genera: Acystopteris, Cystopteris, and Gymnocarpium.1

Ferns, in general, are distributed worldwide but are most abundant in tropical and subtropical regions. They range from tiny aquatic plants to large tree ferns. Ferns reproduce via spores and have a life cycle involving both a sporophyte (the familiar fern plant) and a gametophyte (a small, independent plant). The Cystopteris genus, specifically, is found in the north temperate zone and is known for its hooded or arched indusium.234

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Annotated classification
Family Cystopteridaceae Plants are small or medium-sized; leaves are thin; sori are small, round, and naked; 3 genera (Acystopteris, Cystopteris, and Gymnocarpium). Family Desmophlebiaceae Plants have a thickened vein inside the edge of each compound leaflet; 1 genus (Desmophlebium) with 2 species.
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Family Cystopteridaceae Plants are small or medium-sized; leaves are thin; sori are small, round, and naked; 3 genera (Acystopteris, Cystopteris, and Gymnocarpium). Family Desmophlebiaceae Plants have a thickened vein inside the edge of each compound leaflet; 1 genus (Desmophlebium) with 2 species.
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