Identification Of Morphological Characteristics Ground Ferns (Pteris vittata L.) in The Wisdom Park UGM Area

Abstract

Morphological characteristics of plants are one of the easiest ways to determine the type and diversity of species. Ferns are found in many areas except deserts and snowy areas, and morphological variations are common. The body structure of ferns is divided into three main parts: roots, stems and leaves. One of the areas that has a variety of ferns is Wisdom Park UGM, which is 6 hectares of green open space that will encourage the growth of various species of ferns, including Pteris vittata or ground ferns. Morphological diversity in ferns can be influenced by environmental factors such as light, temperature, humidity and soil pH. The aim of this research is to identify the morphological characteristics of ferns (Pteris vittata) that grow in Wisdom Park UGM, so that they can contribute to the study of fern diversity and become reference material for conservation and development efforts of ferns in this area. The research method was carried out in three stages, namely land preparation, sampling and morphological identification through observing leaves, roots and stems. Research has revealed that Pteris vittata has brown fibrous roots, round, grooved brownish-green stems, and pinnate leaves of various sizes and shapes. This morphological variation indicates the existence of two infraspecific groups, namely Pteris vittata (subspecies vittata) and Pteris vittate (subspecies emodi). This research aims to be a reference for the development and conservation of ferns on campus and provide more insight into the diversity of ferns that exist in Indonesia.