Alsophila firma
Alsophila firma, commonly known as the maquique fern, is a deciduous tree fern in the family Cyatheaceae endemic to Mexico, other countries of Central America, Colombia, and Ecuador. In the cloud forests of Mexico, it is considered an emblematic species and serves as a host for native epiphytic plants. However, habitat destruction and overconsumption of the trunks for handicraft production have threatened populations in Mexico. As a result, Alsophila firma is considered threatened in the state of Veracruz and has been given special protection per Mexican law.
Description
Alsophila firma is a tree fern, with an erect above-ground stem growing up to tall and up to in diameter. The stipes are armed with thick, black, curved spines that can be up to long, and, like other Cyatheaceae, bear scales. The scales are quite narrow, dark brown in the center with pale, erose margins, and with a long dark seta at the tip, the latter being characteristic of Alsophila.Like other species of Alsophila, Alsophila firma has scaled stems and stipes. Adult individuals grow up to 10.5 meters and are typically found at 750 and 2000 meters above sea level.