Nectar secretion on fern fronds associated with lower levels of herbivore damage: field experiments with a widespread epiphyte of Mexican cloud forest remnants.

Background And Aims: The oldest group of plants in which nectar secretions have been observed are the Polypodiopsida (ferns sensu lato). Nectaries have been reported in a dozen extant genera. The function of these nectaries has been investigated in several fern species, and in some circumstances has been demonstrated to have an antiherbivore role, attracting and maintaining biotic defence (ants and/or other predatory arthropods).

[A new species of fern of the genus Pteris (Filicales: Pteridaceae) endemic to Costa Rica].

The new fern species Pteris herrerae A. Rojas & M. Palacios, endemic to Costa Rica, is described.