Plant · GBIF taxon 4205838
Peacock's Tail Fern
Actiniopteris radiataAlso known as Fan Fern, Radiate Fan Fern
Peacock's Tail Fern features striking, palm-like fronds radiating out in neat fan shapes that resemble tiny peacock tails. Highly adapted to arid environments, this resurrection fern tightly curls its fronds during prolonged droughts and swiftly revives upon the arrival of rain. It thrives in exposed rock crevices across hot, rocky hillsides from Africa to South Asia.
FernDrought TolerantRock Dweller
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—peak records
Not EvaluatedConservation statusIUCN Red List categoriesLCNTVUENCREWEXNot Evaluated — not placed on the risk ladderRed List categories, explained →
Diet & prey
- Autotrophic (photosynthesis)
Predators
- Herbivorous insects
- Grazing goats
ThreatsHabitat degradation, localized over-harvesting for traditional medicine
HabitatsRocky crevices, dry stony hillsides, arid scrublands
Life spanPerennial
Size / weightNot available
Classification
- FamilyPteridaceae
- SpeciesActiniopteris radiata
Range data is not available yet.
Interaction riskLow
- Low
- Moderate
- High
- Very high
- Why interaction risk is low
- Safe to observe at a normal distance.
Responsible observation
- Habitat Check: Search along exposed rock faces and dry stone walls where soil is sparse.
- Observe Hydration States: Watch how the fronds roll inward during dry spells to conserve moisture.
Close Relative Close Relative 
Family Member Starfarmer / CC BY 2.0 · cc-by
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