Synopsis of the Genus Athyrium Roth in Jammu and Kashmir, India

Abstract

The present article comprises the enumeration (an overview) of the taxa belonging to genus Athyrium Roth in Jammu and Kashmir. In the study area, the genus is represented by nine species. Currently accepted names, basionyms (if any), important synonyms, and distribution, have been updated for each taxon. Through extensive field surveys and herbarium analyses, nine species were documented, representing approximately 15.25% of India's Athyrium diversity and 30% of Northern India's. Each species account includes updated nomenclature, synonyms, and distribution data. Notably, Athyrium attenuatum, A. mackinnoniorum, A. pectinatum, and A. strigillosum are prevalent in the region, while A. rubricaule is considered rare. The findings underscore the ecological significance of the Himalayan region in supporting diverse pteridophyte flora and provide a foundation for future conservation and taxonomic studies.