Niphidium crassifolium
Niphidium crassifolium · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (0 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Niphidium crassifolium is a distinctive fern species often recognized by its fleshy, dark green foliage and unique growth habit. Found primarily in tropical environments, this plant thrives in shaded, humid habitats that mimic its natural ecosystem. Beyond its ornamental appeal, researchers have explored the biological potential of the species through various specialized preparations. Specifically, the development of botanical extracts has become a focal point for studying its potential chemical properties. Understanding these extracts is essential for uncovering the therapeutic or functional possibilities held within the plant.
- Synonyms
- Campyloneurum Crassifolium · Anaxetum Crassifolium · 15 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Polypodiaceae
- Distribution
- Not available
- Plant Parts
- Not available
Classification
Common Names
Niphidium crassifolium is a versatile plant recognized by a diverse array of regional and descriptive names. In some Spanish-speaking areas, it is affectionately known as the Helecho lengua de ciervo. Those who appreciate its elegant foliage often refer to it simply as the graceful fern. In German-speaking regions, the species is identified as the lansettbräken. Finally, it also carries the distinct name standusis šertvytis, highlighting its wide cultural presence.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Niphidium crassifolium is a botanical subject that has been classified under several different names throughout scientific history. Because of various taxonomic shifts, it is recognized by synonyms such as Anaxetum crassifolium and Campyloneurum crassifolium. Researchers have also documented the plant under the labels Dipteris crassifolia and Drynaria crassifolia in older literature. Furthermore, the name Pessopteris crassifolia has been used to refer to this same species in past studies. Understanding these diverse nomenclatural relationships is essential for accurately identifying the plant across different botanical records.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Niphidium crassifolium belongs to the vast kingdom Plantae, representing a diverse group of living organisms. Within this kingdom, it is classified under the class Equisetopsida, marking its place among the ferns. The plant is further categorized into the order Polypodiales, which helps scientists understand its evolutionary lineage. It specifically resides within the genus Niphidium, a group characterized by unique botanical traits. Finally, this species is a distinguished member of the family Polypodiaceae, completing its complex biological identity.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Polypodiinae |
| Order | Polypodiales |
| Family | Polypodiaceae |
| Genus | Niphidium |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Niphidium crassifolium exhibits a remarkably wide geographical range that spans across diverse global regions. In the Southern Hemisphere, this plant is widely distributed throughout Australasia and specifically across New Zealand. Its reach extends significantly into Northern America, where it maintains a strong presence within Mexico. Within the Mexican landscape, the species can be found in the Central, Gulf, Northeast, and Southeast territories. This expansive distribution highlights the plant's ability to thrive in varied environments across different continents.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Biological Activities
Compounds
Conditions
Preparations
Niphidium crassifolium is prepared as an extract to evaluate its biological properties against human hepatocellular carcinoma. During an ethnopharmacological survey in Peru, this specific species was among those collected to create ethanol extracts for testing. These extracts were subjected to a multi-parametric phenotypic assay to measure their antiproliferative activity on Hep3B cells. The study revealed that Niphidium crassifolium produces an extract that shows significant antiproliferative effects against these cancer cells. Furthermore, this extract demonstrated a lack of toxicity on primary human hepatocytes during in vitro testing.