Description
This handbook compiles information on Indian ferns from diverse sources, encompassing ferns found in British India, Ceylon, and the Malay Peninsula. The author’s earlier works were crafted in India, where access to libraries and herbariums with standard specimens was limited. However, he has now had the opportunity to thoroughly examine Wallichian ferns at the Linnean Society, extensive collections at Kew and the British Museum. Additionally, he received invaluable support from Messrs. Baker and Clarke in identifying challenging specimens, enabling the resolution of numerous uncertainties and correction of multiple inaccuracies. The bulk of the generic names employed adhere to the “Synopsis Filicum,” yet sub-genera have been elevated to the rank of genera. This approach circumvents the inconvenience of duplicative generic names. It can be accepted even by those who may not perceive significant distinctions in general characteristics, such as habit, among genera like Phegopteris, Polypodium, Pleopeltis, and Drynaria. These distinctions primarily hinge on the structure of sori, without regard to habit, venation, or vernation.
