3945. Nature stories. Epiphytes on tree trunks

The term epiphyte describes a plant which, like a parasite, grows on a host, but unlike a parasite, takes no nutrients from the tree itself and relies on nutrients from the air, falling rain, and the compost that lies on tree branches. Their epiphytic way of life gives these plants advantages in the rainforest, allowing them access to more direct sunlight, a greater number of canopy animal pollinators, and the possibility of dispersing their seeds via wind.

 

Epiphytes are found throughout rainforests, but exist in the greatest abundance in the so-called cloud forests which exist at the fog-laden elevation of 3,300-6,600 feet (1,000-2,000 m). Epiphytes belong to 83 families, of which the majority are ferns and flowering plants. Some of the better-known epiphytes include ferns, lichens, mosses, cacti, bromeliads (over 2,000 species), and orchids.

Dragon scales tree which has the Latin name Pyrrosia piloselloides is an epiphytic plant.

This is the most familiar fern found on urban trees and is regarded as the pioneer epiphytes (Wee, 1984). Older trees are sometimes totally engulfed by their circular fronds, leading to its common name as of Dragon's Scale. The fertile fronds are markedly different being very narrow and elongated. The sori runs along the sides of the blade margin.

 

The fronds of this fern are almost circular and "pasted" on the trunks and branches of trees. Sometimes, they are oval in shape. Some Dischidia species like D. nummularia and D. major are similar, but their leaves are oppositely arranged.

Fertile fronds are narrow and much more elongated.

A tree trunk covered with the Dragon's Scale Fern.

Circular fronds is the typical shape.