Data from: Microsorum × tohieaense (Polypodiaceae), a new hybrid fern from French Polynesia, with implications for the taxonomy of Microsorum

A new hybrid microsoroid fern, Microsorum × tohieaense (Microsorum
commutatum × Microsorum membranifolium) from Moorea, French Polynesia is
described based on morphology and molecular phylogenetic analysis.
Microsorum × tohieaense can be distinguished from other French Polynesian
Microsorum by the combination of sori that are distributed more or less in
a single line between the costae and margins, apical pinna wider than
lateral pinnae, and round rhizome scales with entire margins. Genetic
evidence is also presented for the first time supporting the hybrid origin
of Microsorum × maximum (Microsorum grossum × Microsorum punctatum), and
possibly indicating a hybrid origin for the Hawaiian endemic Microsorum
spectrum. The implications of hybridization for the taxonomy of
microsoroid ferns are discussed, and a key to the microsoroid ferns of the
Society Islands is provided.