The diversity of the Polypodiaceae in University green space

Abstract

Polypodiaceae is one of the fern families by the highest number species and plays an important role in the ecosystem. The polypodiaceae family is also known for its pharmacological properties. The University of Sumatera Utara campus, as one of green spaces in Medan, has a various variety of plants from undergrowth to higher plants. However, no information on the diversity of Polypodiaceae epiphytic species on the USU campus has not been recorded. The aim of the research is to identify and evaluate the diversity of Polypodiaceae species on the USU campus. For those purpose an inventory method in all green spaces on the USU campus. Species identification was accomplished by morphological identification of founded epiphytes. The relative density and dominance values have been used to calculate species diversity (H'). The study revealed the presence of 6 (six) Polypodiaceae epiphytic species on the USU campus, namely Microsorum diversifolium, Microsorum pustulatum, Pyrrosia piloselloides, Phymatosorus scolopendria, Pyrrosia eleagnifolia and Pyrrosia lanceolate. The highest diversity index was found in Pyrossia piloselloides with an H' value of 0.345 and the lowest diversity was found in Microsorum pustulatum with an H' value of 0.001.