A review of the fern genus Sticherus (Gleicheniaceae) in New Zealand with confirmation of two new species records

Sticherus tener is confirmed as being present on Resolution Island, Fiordland, extending from the northern half of Five Fingers Peninsula through to the centre of the island. It is also present on nearby Anchor Island in Dusky Sound, and on the Denniston and Stockton Plateaus. Sticherus urceolatus is newly recorded for New Zealand, with populations on the Stockton Plateau and near Takaka, and what appears to be a hybrid population on Indian Island, Dusky Sound. Plants of S. tener and S. urceolatus from northern South Island were previously identified as Sticherus flabellatus. Diagnostic characters for distinguishing the five species of Sticherus occurring in southern Australia and New Zealand, and a key to the New Zealand species, are provided. The distribution, ecology and conservation status of S. tener and S. urceolatus are outlined, and their biogeographic and evolutionary origins are discussed.