Morphological Study of the Platycerium bifurcatum

Abstract

This study was conducted to determine the morphology of the fern Platycerium bifurcatum in the UGM Wisdom Park area, which is one of the locations rich in biodiversity, including various types of ferns. Supported by Gadjah Mada University, this park is part of an advocacy effort in the fields of education, research, and community service to support sustainable development. This study aims to increase insight into ferns and can contribute to the development of science, especially in the fields of botany and ecology, and can be a reference for further research on ferns in Indonesia. This study uses an observation method with a direct observation method in the UGM Wisdom Park area. Platycerium bifurcatum is an epiphytic fern that attaches to large tree trunks, also known as staghorn ferns. The host tree trunk has a thick shell, the roots are fibrous and soft, and grow in clusters. The leaves are shaped like deer antlers. The sporangium on P. bifurcatum is protected by sori that grow in groups at the lower end of the leaves.