THE FERNS OF EASTER ISLAND 



5' 



The specimens collected agree in all essential characters with the descrip- 

 tion of Brackenridge; previously, it was known only from Tahiti. It is a 



much larger species than E. Gayanum (Fee) Moore, to which the specimens 

 in the FUENTES collection were referred by HlCKEN; moreover, it is well 

 marked by the scattered minute scales on the underside. 

 Area of distribution: Tahiti; Easter Island. 



Fig. 3. Dryofiteris Espinosai Hicken; basal pinna, natural size; a pinnule of 1. order, X 2, 



b of 2. order, X 4- 



Microlepia Presl 



8. M. strigosa (Thbg) Presl. — HlCKEN Bol. 132, Rev. 90. 



The only common fern, probably growing all over the island in scattered 

 specimens, generally among rocks and stones. 



Hab. Eastern headland, Vaintu Rova and Tea-tea; plains near Hanga 

 Ho Orno, not rare (no. 647); Rano Aroi, fairly common; between Hanga Roa 

 village and Mataveri, scattered; Rano Kao, in the crater, not rare (no. 1125). — 

 Fertile. 



Area of distribution: SE. Asia, Polynesia. 



Polypodium L. 



9. P. phymatodes L. — Syn. P. phymatodes et P. Fuentesii Hicken, 

 Bol. 132 tab. XXVI, Rev. 91 tab. 8. 



