Filling Gaps: Floristic Survey of Ferns and Lycophytes in Rio Grande do Norte state, northeastern Brazil

Abstract

Brazil, with its vast territory and climatic diversity, harbors a rich biodiversity of plants, including ferns and lycophytes. However, these groups remain understudied in northeastern Brazil, particularly in the state of Rio Grande do Norte. This study provides a comprehensive floristic survey of spore-bearing vascular plants in Rio Grande do Norte, documenting 334 records encompassing 64 species across 23 families. Fourteen species are recorded for the first time in the state. Collection gaps and sampling biases were identified, revealing ecological and distribution patterns. The analysis highlights a significant concentration of sampling effort in the Atlantic Forest and Caatinga, influenced notably by seasonality and water availability. This study underscores the need for conservation efforts targeting fern and lycophyte species and identifies critical areas for future research.