Cystopteris fragilis (L.) Bernh.
Source: Wikipedia
Synonyms 47
- 192,229 GBIF occurrences
- 23,346 iNaturalist observations
In many places this is a common and gregarious fern, which is fast-growing and occurs in small groups or large numbers. The current population trend is stable.
This species occurs in calcicolous, shaded rocks in wet mountainous and rocky lowland areas. It also occurs in rocky woodlands, wet ravines, mountain cliffs, screes, cave mouths, sink holes, gyres of limestone pavements, sandstone cliffs and on masonry in mortar on shaded walls, ruins, gardens, under bridges over streams and rivers, canal sidings and other brick-work in shade, where they have no competition from other vascular plants (Page 1997, Y. Ivanenko pers. comm. 2016). In Macaronesia, and sometimes elsewhere, it is also found on acid substrates (F. Rumsey pers. comm. 2016). Its elevation limits are 0 - 2,700 m.
There are no major threats to this species, however the subpopulations on walls in urban settings may be threatened by renovation activities.
When walls housing this species need repair, they are best re-grouted with traditional lime mortar, and when possible, at least some or all plants need to be left in place when grouting. Cystopteris fragilis is found in many protected areas throughout its range.The species is generally considered not to be of conservation concern, but it is listed as Vulnerable in the Netherlands (Van der Meijden et al. 2000), where it is protected by law (Flora en Fauna Wet 1998). Several forms appear on national Red Lists: Cystopteris fragilis subsp. dickieana is listed as Vulnerable in the United Kingdom (Wigginton 1999, Cheffings and Farrell 2005) and as critically threatened in the Czech Republic (Grulich 2012; where its occurrence may be dubious). Cystopteris fragilis subsp. huteri is listed as Endangered in Andorra (Carrillo et al. 2008). In England, Cystopteris fragilis subsp. alpina is listed as Extinct, and Cystopteris fragilis subsp. diaphana is listed as Vulnerable (Stroh et al. 2014). In Ukraine, Cystopteris fragilis subsp. alpina is included as a Rare species. Further research is needed to clarify the taxonomic status of this species.
European regional assessment: Least Concern (LC)EU 28 regional assessment: Least Concern (LC)This fern species is gregarious, fast-growing and common in much of its widespread range. Its current population trend is stable and there no major threats to the species. It is therefore assessed as Least Concern.
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