Common centipede

Red Data Book fern. It is included in the List of rare and endangered wild animals and wild-growing plants in the Republic of Belarus. The population of this moisture-loving and very shade-tolerant forest species has significantly decreased due to deforestation and land development.

It is surprising that this rocky mountain forest fern grows in Belarus. However, it has found suitable habitats in river valleys and lake basins that mimic rocky conditions. It is also found on moss-covered boulders, stumps, and fallen tree trunks. The leaves of the polypody are dense, leathery, and overwinter green under the snow. It is impossible to confuse them with the leaves of other ferns.

The name of this fern clearly comes from the fact that the leaf stalks, extending from the rhizome, are arranged in 2 rows, forming a resemblance to a millipede lying on its back – an invertebrate animal that inhabits the forest floor.