Nectaries in ferns: their taxonomic distribution, structure, function, and sugar composition.

The wide taxonomic distribution, variable morphology, locations, and sugar compositions point to multiple evolutionary origins of fern nectaries. Nectar release in young leaves might attract mutualistic ants to protect leaves against herbivores only during this most vulnerable developmental stage. Even ex-situ, fern nectar is a valuable food source because it attracted several opportunistic animal species. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.