taxonID	type	description	language	source
C52E87A73248FFC5FF68CC89FEF68ACC.taxon	materials_examined	Type: — CHINA. Yunnan: Mengzi City, Mingjiu Town, Shidong Village, the Stone Cave, alt. 1880 m, 23 ° 29 ′ 21 ″ N, 103 ° 37 ′ 10 ″ E, in a limestone cave, 22 September 2016, Mengqi Han, Yang Dong & Tianfeng Lü HMQ 1158 (holotype IBK!, isotypes CDBI!, MO!).	en	Han, Meng-Qi, Liu, Yan, Zhang, Li-Bing (2018): Eight new species of Polystichum (subg. Haplopolystichum; Dryopteridaceae) from limestone caves in Guangdong and Yunnan, China, with reference to species diversity in the karst terrains at high elevations in subtropical areas. Phytotaxa 365 (2): 145-168, DOI: 10.11646/phytotaxa.365.2.3, URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.365.2.3
C52E87A73248FFC5FF68CC89FEF68ACC.taxon	diagnosis	Diagnosis: — Polystichum deltatum is most similar to P. crassirachis in having toothed upper pinna margins, but the former often has pinnae deltoid and pinna apex acute, while the latter has pinnae deltoid to oblong and pinna apex rounded.	en	Han, Meng-Qi, Liu, Yan, Zhang, Li-Bing (2018): Eight new species of Polystichum (subg. Haplopolystichum; Dryopteridaceae) from limestone caves in Guangdong and Yunnan, China, with reference to species diversity in the karst terrains at high elevations in subtropical areas. Phytotaxa 365 (2): 145-168, DOI: 10.11646/phytotaxa.365.2.3, URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.365.2.3
C52E87A73248FFC5FF68CC89FEF68ACC.taxon	description	Plants perennial, evergreen, (19 –) 30 – 43 cm tall. Rhizomes ascending, 1.5 – 2 cm long, ca. 1.5 cm diam., with remnant bases of old petioles; roots dull brown when dried, up to 10 cm long, ca. 0.3 mm diam. Leaves in tufts; petioles 8 – 14 cm long, ca. 8 mm diam., basal portions covered with scales, scales ovate to ovate-lanceolate, 2 – 5 × 0.9 – 2 mm, papery, dull brown, edges with irregular teeth, apex caudate; distal petiole scales similar but narrower, 2.2 – 4 × 0.5 – 1 mm, membranous, margins with irregular teeth, apex long-acuminate or caudate. Laminae lanceolate, 1 - pinnate, 21 – 32 × 2.5 – 3.2 cm, apex acuminate, green when dried; rachises ca. 0.8 mm diam., scales ovate to ovate-lanceolate, dull brown, 1.6 – 3 mm long including tip, 0.5 – 0.72 mm wide at base, margins with irregular teeth, apex long-caudate. Pinnae 37 – 47 pairs, deltoid, (0.9 –) 1.3 – 1.6 × 0.5 – 0.6 cm, lowest 5 – 8 pairs slightly reduced toward lamina base, basalmost pairs 2 / 3 – 3 / 4 as large as middle ones, basalmost two pairs 1.4 – 1.5 cm apart, middle pairs 0.7 – 0.8 cm apart, all pinnae papery, alternate, not overlapping rachis, basiscopic margins straight or slightly curved, entire, acroscopic margins shallowly crenulate, basiscopic margins forming a 70 – 85 (– 90) ° angle with rachis, apex acute, base cuneate and asymmetric, acroscopic sides much broader, pinna petiolues ca. 0.3 mm long, auricles acute at apex, abaxially with microscales, microscales broad-type, ovate, ovate-lanceolate or subulate, light brown, 0.2 – 0.9 mm long, 0.18 – 0.35 mm wide at base, margins with irregular teeth; adaxially glabrous; veins visible abaxially but somewhat obscure adaxially, lateral veins free, single or forked. Lowest 3 – 6 pairs of pinnae sterile; sori terminal on lateral veins of fertile pinnae, 1 – 8 on acroscopic side of fertile pinnae, 0 – 3 on distal basiscopic side of fertile pinnae, ca. 1 mm diam., closer to pinna margins than to costa (centers of sori 1 – 1.7 mm from pinna margins, (1 –) 1.8 – 3.3 mm from costa), centers 1.4 – 1.8 mm apart from one another; indusia rounded, light brown, 1 – 1.4 mm diam., margins erose. Spores rounded in polar view and elliptic in equatorial view; perispore sculpture cristate with numerous spinules.	en	Han, Meng-Qi, Liu, Yan, Zhang, Li-Bing (2018): Eight new species of Polystichum (subg. Haplopolystichum; Dryopteridaceae) from limestone caves in Guangdong and Yunnan, China, with reference to species diversity in the karst terrains at high elevations in subtropical areas. Phytotaxa 365 (2): 145-168, DOI: 10.11646/phytotaxa.365.2.3, URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.365.2.3
C52E87A73248FFC5FF68CC89FEF68ACC.taxon	distribution	Geographical distribution: — Polystichum deltatum is only known from southeastern Yunnan, Southwest China. It is likely endemic to the Stone Cave, Mengzi City.	en	Han, Meng-Qi, Liu, Yan, Zhang, Li-Bing (2018): Eight new species of Polystichum (subg. Haplopolystichum; Dryopteridaceae) from limestone caves in Guangdong and Yunnan, China, with reference to species diversity in the karst terrains at high elevations in subtropical areas. Phytotaxa 365 (2): 145-168, DOI: 10.11646/phytotaxa.365.2.3, URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.365.2.3
C52E87A73248FFC5FF68CC89FEF68ACC.taxon	biology_ecology	Ecology: — Polystichum deltatum grows inside a limestone cave at an elevation of 1880 m with humid and shady conditions.	en	Han, Meng-Qi, Liu, Yan, Zhang, Li-Bing (2018): Eight new species of Polystichum (subg. Haplopolystichum; Dryopteridaceae) from limestone caves in Guangdong and Yunnan, China, with reference to species diversity in the karst terrains at high elevations in subtropical areas. Phytotaxa 365 (2): 145-168, DOI: 10.11646/phytotaxa.365.2.3, URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.365.2.3
C52E87A73248FFC5FF68CC89FEF68ACC.taxon	conservation	IUCN Red List category: — CR-Critically Endangered following IUCN (2015) Red List criteria: Only one population with about 150 plants was seen in the field.	en	Han, Meng-Qi, Liu, Yan, Zhang, Li-Bing (2018): Eight new species of Polystichum (subg. Haplopolystichum; Dryopteridaceae) from limestone caves in Guangdong and Yunnan, China, with reference to species diversity in the karst terrains at high elevations in subtropical areas. Phytotaxa 365 (2): 145-168, DOI: 10.11646/phytotaxa.365.2.3, URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.365.2.3
C52E87A73248FFC5FF68CC89FEF68ACC.taxon	etymology	Etymology: — The species epithet is based on the Latin adjective, deltatum-, deltoid, referring to the often deltoid shape of the pinnae of the species.	en	Han, Meng-Qi, Liu, Yan, Zhang, Li-Bing (2018): Eight new species of Polystichum (subg. Haplopolystichum; Dryopteridaceae) from limestone caves in Guangdong and Yunnan, China, with reference to species diversity in the karst terrains at high elevations in subtropical areas. Phytotaxa 365 (2): 145-168, DOI: 10.11646/phytotaxa.365.2.3, URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.365.2.3
C52E87A73248FFC5FF68CC89FEF68ACC.taxon	vernacular_names	Vernacular name: — ḟmNJHẄ (san jiao yu er jue).	en	Han, Meng-Qi, Liu, Yan, Zhang, Li-Bing (2018): Eight new species of Polystichum (subg. Haplopolystichum; Dryopteridaceae) from limestone caves in Guangdong and Yunnan, China, with reference to species diversity in the karst terrains at high elevations in subtropical areas. Phytotaxa 365 (2): 145-168, DOI: 10.11646/phytotaxa.365.2.3, URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.365.2.3
C52E87A73248FFC5FF68CC89FEF68ACC.taxon	discussion	Notes: — Polystichum deltatum is a very distinct species and there are no close relatives judging from its morphology.	en	Han, Meng-Qi, Liu, Yan, Zhang, Li-Bing (2018): Eight new species of Polystichum (subg. Haplopolystichum; Dryopteridaceae) from limestone caves in Guangdong and Yunnan, China, with reference to species diversity in the karst terrains at high elevations in subtropical areas. Phytotaxa 365 (2): 145-168, DOI: 10.11646/phytotaxa.365.2.3, URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.365.2.3
C52E87A7324AFFC0FF68C883FEF48CB0.taxon	materials_examined	Type: — CHINA. Yunnan: Gejiu City, Kafang Town, inside a limestone cave facing north, elev. 1950 m, 25 March 2017, Mengqi Han HMQ 1301 (holotype IBK!, isotypes CDBI!, MO!).	en	Han, Meng-Qi, Liu, Yan, Zhang, Li-Bing (2018): Eight new species of Polystichum (subg. Haplopolystichum; Dryopteridaceae) from limestone caves in Guangdong and Yunnan, China, with reference to species diversity in the karst terrains at high elevations in subtropical areas. Phytotaxa 365 (2): 145-168, DOI: 10.11646/phytotaxa.365.2.3, URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.365.2.3
C52E87A7324AFFC0FF68C883FEF48CB0.taxon	diagnosis	Diagnosis: — Polystichum gejiuense is most similar to P. fengshanense Li Bing Zhang & H. He (2011: 859) in having pinnae oblong, entire, and pinna apex rounded, but the former has pinnae up to 15 pairs, indistinct auricles, a ratio of length to width of pinnae ca. 2: 1, and sori close to pinna margins, while the latter has pinnae up to 24 pairs, distinct auricles, a ratio of length to width of pinnae ca. 1.5: 1, and sori closer to the costa.	en	Han, Meng-Qi, Liu, Yan, Zhang, Li-Bing (2018): Eight new species of Polystichum (subg. Haplopolystichum; Dryopteridaceae) from limestone caves in Guangdong and Yunnan, China, with reference to species diversity in the karst terrains at high elevations in subtropical areas. Phytotaxa 365 (2): 145-168, DOI: 10.11646/phytotaxa.365.2.3, URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.365.2.3
C52E87A7324AFFC0FF68C883FEF48CB0.taxon	description	Plants perennial, evergreen, 11 – 15 cm tall. Rhizomes ascending, ca. 0.7 cm long, ca. 0.6 cm diam., with remnant bases of old petioles; roots dull brown when dried, up to 11 cm long, ca. 0.3 mm diam. Leaves in tufts; petioles (1 –) 3 – 7.5 cm long, ca. 0.5 mm diam., basal portions covered with scales, proximal scales ovate to ovate-lanceolate, 0.9 – 2.5 × 0.2 – 0.6 mm, papery, dark brown, acuminate, edges nearly entire; distal petiole scales sparse, lanceolate or subulate, up to 1.4 × 0.4 mm, membranous, margins with irregular teeth, apex caudate. Laminae elliptic-lanceolate, 1 - pinnate, 5.5 – 8 × 1.7 – 2.2 cm, apex acuminate, green when dried; rachises ca. 0.5 mm diam., scales subulate, lanceolate to ovate-lanceolate, light brown, 0.25 – 1.7 mm long including tip, 0.07 – 0.36 mm wide at base, margins sparsely with teeth, apex long-caudate. Pinnae 13 – 17 pairs, oblong, 0.8 – 1 × 0.3 – 0.45 cm, basalmost 2 – 3 pairs slightly reduced toward lamina base, basalmost pairs ca. 3 / 4 as large as middle ones, basalmost two pairs 0.4 – 0.7 cm apart, middle pairs 0.3 – 0.45 cm apart, all pinnae papery, alternate, slightly overlapping rachis or not, basiscopic margins slightly curved, entire, acroscopic margins with small teeth or nearly entire, basiscopic margins forming a (70 –) 80 – 90 (– 110) ° angle with rachis, apex rounded, base cuneate and asymmetric, acroscopic sides much broader, pinna petiolues ca. 0.2 mm long, auricles rounded at apex, abaxially with microscales, microscales narrow-type, lanceolate, whitish brown, 0.2 – 0.7 mm long, 0.09 – 0.15 mm wide at base, margins entire; adaxially glabrous; veins visible abaxially but somewhat obscure adaxially, lateral veins free, single or forked. All pinnae fertile or lowest 1 – 3 pairs sometimes sterile; sori terminal on lateral veins of fertile pinnae, 5 – 8 on acroscopic side of fertile pinnae, 0 – 2 on distal basiscopic side of fertile pinnae, ca. 1 mm diam., closer to pinna margins than to costa (centers of sori 0.5 – 0.9 mm from pinna margins, 0.7 – 3.2 mm from costa), centers 1 – 1.3 mm apart from one another; indusia peltate, light brown, ca. 1 mm diam., margins nearly entire. Spores rounded or slightly deltoid in polar view and elliptic in equatorial view; perispore sculpture cristate with numerous spinules and granules.	en	Han, Meng-Qi, Liu, Yan, Zhang, Li-Bing (2018): Eight new species of Polystichum (subg. Haplopolystichum; Dryopteridaceae) from limestone caves in Guangdong and Yunnan, China, with reference to species diversity in the karst terrains at high elevations in subtropical areas. Phytotaxa 365 (2): 145-168, DOI: 10.11646/phytotaxa.365.2.3, URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.365.2.3
C52E87A7324AFFC0FF68C883FEF48CB0.taxon	distribution	Geographical distribution: — Polystichum gejiuense is only known from a single cave in southeastern Yunnan, Southwest China. It is likely endemic to the cave in Gejiu City.	en	Han, Meng-Qi, Liu, Yan, Zhang, Li-Bing (2018): Eight new species of Polystichum (subg. Haplopolystichum; Dryopteridaceae) from limestone caves in Guangdong and Yunnan, China, with reference to species diversity in the karst terrains at high elevations in subtropical areas. Phytotaxa 365 (2): 145-168, DOI: 10.11646/phytotaxa.365.2.3, URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.365.2.3
C52E87A7324AFFC0FF68C883FEF48CB0.taxon	biology_ecology	Ecology: — Polystichum gejiuense grows inside a limestone cave at an elevation of 1950 m with humid and shady conditions.	en	Han, Meng-Qi, Liu, Yan, Zhang, Li-Bing (2018): Eight new species of Polystichum (subg. Haplopolystichum; Dryopteridaceae) from limestone caves in Guangdong and Yunnan, China, with reference to species diversity in the karst terrains at high elevations in subtropical areas. Phytotaxa 365 (2): 145-168, DOI: 10.11646/phytotaxa.365.2.3, URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.365.2.3
C52E87A7324AFFC0FF68C883FEF48CB0.taxon	conservation	IUCN Red List category: — CR-Critically Endangered: Only one population with about 30 plants was seen in the field. The natural vegetation on the mountain was mostly replaced by plantation of Cryptomeria japonica (Thunberg ex Linnaeus f. 1782: 421) D. Don (1839: 167). Similar habitats to that of the new species were not seen in the nearby areas.	en	Han, Meng-Qi, Liu, Yan, Zhang, Li-Bing (2018): Eight new species of Polystichum (subg. Haplopolystichum; Dryopteridaceae) from limestone caves in Guangdong and Yunnan, China, with reference to species diversity in the karst terrains at high elevations in subtropical areas. Phytotaxa 365 (2): 145-168, DOI: 10.11646/phytotaxa.365.2.3, URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.365.2.3
C52E87A7324AFFC0FF68C883FEF48CB0.taxon	etymology	Etymology: — The species epithet is based on the Chinese pinyin, gejiu, the county name in southeastern Yunnan, and the Latin suffix- ense, of origin, referring to the type locality and the current known distribution of the species in Gejiu County, Yunnan.	en	Han, Meng-Qi, Liu, Yan, Zhang, Li-Bing (2018): Eight new species of Polystichum (subg. Haplopolystichum; Dryopteridaceae) from limestone caves in Guangdong and Yunnan, China, with reference to species diversity in the karst terrains at high elevations in subtropical areas. Phytotaxa 365 (2): 145-168, DOI: 10.11646/phytotaxa.365.2.3, URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.365.2.3
C52E87A7324AFFC0FF68C883FEF48CB0.taxon	vernacular_names	Vernacular name: — ṪDzHẄ (ge jiu er jue).	en	Han, Meng-Qi, Liu, Yan, Zhang, Li-Bing (2018): Eight new species of Polystichum (subg. Haplopolystichum; Dryopteridaceae) from limestone caves in Guangdong and Yunnan, China, with reference to species diversity in the karst terrains at high elevations in subtropical areas. Phytotaxa 365 (2): 145-168, DOI: 10.11646/phytotaxa.365.2.3, URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.365.2.3
C52E87A7324AFFC0FF68C883FEF48CB0.taxon	discussion	Notes: — In addition to the differences between Polystichum gejiuense and P. fengshanense listed above, the new species has relatively longer petioles, the ratio of length of lamina to length of petiole is up to 0.7: 1, and only 1 – 2 pairs of basal pinnae are shortened toward the lamina base. In contrast, P. fengshanense has relatively shorter petioles, the ratio of length of lamina to length of petiole is up to 5: 1, and up to 9 pairs of basal pinnae are shortened toward the lamina base.	en	Han, Meng-Qi, Liu, Yan, Zhang, Li-Bing (2018): Eight new species of Polystichum (subg. Haplopolystichum; Dryopteridaceae) from limestone caves in Guangdong and Yunnan, China, with reference to species diversity in the karst terrains at high elevations in subtropical areas. Phytotaxa 365 (2): 145-168, DOI: 10.11646/phytotaxa.365.2.3, URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.365.2.3
C52E87A7324FFFCEFF68CE9FFC118627.taxon	materials_examined	Type: — CHINA. Guangdong: Lianzhou City, Lianzhou Subterranean River Scenic Area, Chukoudong, alt. 200 m, 25 ° 00 ′ 25 ″ N, 112 ° 19 ′ 09 ″ E, in a limestone cave, 17 July 2017, Mengqi Han & Lin Huang HMQ 1434 A (holotype IBK!).	en	Han, Meng-Qi, Liu, Yan, Zhang, Li-Bing (2018): Eight new species of Polystichum (subg. Haplopolystichum; Dryopteridaceae) from limestone caves in Guangdong and Yunnan, China, with reference to species diversity in the karst terrains at high elevations in subtropical areas. Phytotaxa 365 (2): 145-168, DOI: 10.11646/phytotaxa.365.2.3, URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.365.2.3
C52E87A7324FFFCEFF68CE9FFC118627.taxon	diagnosis	Diagnosis: — Polystichum hanmengqii is most similar to P. hainanicola Li Bing Zhang, Liang Zhang & X. F. Gao (2013: 10) in having ratio of length to width of pinnae 2.5 – 3: 1, pinnae repand on margin and rounded at apex, and sori close to the pinna margins, but the former has lamina fertile on the upper part only, proximal basiscopic margins of pinnae straight, and sori above costa of middle pinnae fewer than 4 and borne at both distal and proximal parts of pinnae, while the latter has whole lamina fertile, proximal basiscopic margins of pinnae curved, and sori above costa of middle pinnae up to 7 and borne at distal parts of pinnae only.	en	Han, Meng-Qi, Liu, Yan, Zhang, Li-Bing (2018): Eight new species of Polystichum (subg. Haplopolystichum; Dryopteridaceae) from limestone caves in Guangdong and Yunnan, China, with reference to species diversity in the karst terrains at high elevations in subtropical areas. Phytotaxa 365 (2): 145-168, DOI: 10.11646/phytotaxa.365.2.3, URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.365.2.3
C52E87A7324FFFCEFF68CE9FFC118627.taxon	description	Plants perennial, evergreen, 34 – 38 cm tall. Rhizomes not seen. Leaves in tufts; petioles 11 – 13 cm long, ca. 1 mm diam., basal portions covered with scales, scales broad-lanceolate, ovate-lanceolate to ovate, 0.4 – 3 × 0.2 – 0.6 mm, papery, dark brown, edges with irregular teeth, apex acuminate or caudate; distal petiole scales often subulate, up to 2.2 × 0.4 mm, membranous, light brown, margins short-ciliate, apex caudate. Laminae lanceolate, 1 - pinnate, 23 – 27 × 3 – 3.7 cm, apex acuminate; rachises ca. 1 mm diam., scales linear, subulate, rarely lanceolate, light brown, 1 – 2.5 mm long including tip, 0.18 – 0.36 mm wide at base, margins sparsely ciliate, apex long-caudate. Pinnae 21 – 24 pairs, oblong, 1.2 – 1.9 × 0.5 – 0.7 cm, lowest 7 – 9 pairs slightly reduced toward lamina base, basalmost pairs 1.2 – 1.5 × 0.6 – 0.8 cm, 1.4 – 1.6 cm apart, middle pairs 0.9 – 1.1 cm apart, all pinnae papery, alternate, slightly overlapping rachis or not, basiscopic margins slightly curved, entire, acroscopic margins shallowly crenulate, basiscopic margins forming a (80 –) 90 – 130 ° angle with rachis, apex acute, base cuneate and asymmetric, acroscopic sides much broader, pinna petiolues ca. 0.4 mm long, auricles rounded at apex, adaxially and abaxially sparsely with microscales, microscales narrow-type, linear, light brown, 0.2 – 0.45 mm long; veins visible abaxially but somewhat obscure adaxially, lateral veins free, single or forked. Lowest 9 – 12 pairs of pinnae sterile; sori terminal on lateral veins of fertile pinnae, 1 – 9 on acroscopic side of fertile pinnae, 0 – 4 on distal basiscopic side of fertile pinnae, 1 – 1.3 mm diam., closer to pinna margins than to costa (centers of sori 0.5 – 1.1 mm from pinna margins, 1 – 4.5 mm from costa), centers 2 – 3 mm apart from one another; indusia rounded, blackish in center, light brown outside, ca. 1 mm diam., margins erose.	en	Han, Meng-Qi, Liu, Yan, Zhang, Li-Bing (2018): Eight new species of Polystichum (subg. Haplopolystichum; Dryopteridaceae) from limestone caves in Guangdong and Yunnan, China, with reference to species diversity in the karst terrains at high elevations in subtropical areas. Phytotaxa 365 (2): 145-168, DOI: 10.11646/phytotaxa.365.2.3, URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.365.2.3
C52E87A7324FFFCEFF68CE9FFC118627.taxon	distribution	Geographical distribution: — Polystichum hanmengqii is only known from northwestern Guangdong, South China. It is likely endemic to the cave in Lianzhou City.	en	Han, Meng-Qi, Liu, Yan, Zhang, Li-Bing (2018): Eight new species of Polystichum (subg. Haplopolystichum; Dryopteridaceae) from limestone caves in Guangdong and Yunnan, China, with reference to species diversity in the karst terrains at high elevations in subtropical areas. Phytotaxa 365 (2): 145-168, DOI: 10.11646/phytotaxa.365.2.3, URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.365.2.3
C52E87A7324FFFCEFF68CE9FFC118627.taxon	biology_ecology	Ecology: — Polystichum hanmengqii grows inside a limestone cave at an elevation of 200 m with humid and shady conditions.	en	Han, Meng-Qi, Liu, Yan, Zhang, Li-Bing (2018): Eight new species of Polystichum (subg. Haplopolystichum; Dryopteridaceae) from limestone caves in Guangdong and Yunnan, China, with reference to species diversity in the karst terrains at high elevations in subtropical areas. Phytotaxa 365 (2): 145-168, DOI: 10.11646/phytotaxa.365.2.3, URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.365.2.3
C52E87A7324FFFCEFF68CE9FFC118627.taxon	conservation	IUCN Red List category: — CR-Critically Endangered: Only one population with about 50 plants was seen in the field.	en	Han, Meng-Qi, Liu, Yan, Zhang, Li-Bing (2018): Eight new species of Polystichum (subg. Haplopolystichum; Dryopteridaceae) from limestone caves in Guangdong and Yunnan, China, with reference to species diversity in the karst terrains at high elevations in subtropical areas. Phytotaxa 365 (2): 145-168, DOI: 10.11646/phytotaxa.365.2.3, URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.365.2.3
C52E87A7324FFFCEFF68CE9FFC118627.taxon	etymology	Etymology: — The species epithet is in honor of one of the collectors of the type of the species, Han Mengqi.	en	Han, Meng-Qi, Liu, Yan, Zhang, Li-Bing (2018): Eight new species of Polystichum (subg. Haplopolystichum; Dryopteridaceae) from limestone caves in Guangdong and Yunnan, China, with reference to species diversity in the karst terrains at high elevations in subtropical areas. Phytotaxa 365 (2): 145-168, DOI: 10.11646/phytotaxa.365.2.3, URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.365.2.3
C52E87A7324FFFCEFF68CE9FFC118627.taxon	vernacular_names	Vernacular name: — ĀdzH Ẅ (meng qi er jue).	en	Han, Meng-Qi, Liu, Yan, Zhang, Li-Bing (2018): Eight new species of Polystichum (subg. Haplopolystichum; Dryopteridaceae) from limestone caves in Guangdong and Yunnan, China, with reference to species diversity in the karst terrains at high elevations in subtropical areas. Phytotaxa 365 (2): 145-168, DOI: 10.11646/phytotaxa.365.2.3, URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.365.2.3
C52E87A7324FFFCEFF68CE9FFC118627.taxon	discussion	Notes: — Polystichum hanmengqii is one of the four species known so far with a ratio of length to width of pinnae greater than 2.5: 1, and pinna margins repand (without spinules) or nearly entire. Other three species include P. guangxiense W. M. Chu & H. G. Zhou in Zhou et al. (1996: 205), P. hainanicola, and P. peishanii Li Bing Zhang & H. He (2009: 102). Polystichum hanmengqii can be distinguished from P. guangxiense by having a ratio of length to width of pinnae 2.5 – 2.7: 1 (vs. ca. 3: 1 in P. guangxiense), lamina fertile at upper part only (vs. nearly all pinnae in P. guangxiense), and pinna margins repand (vs. nearly entire in P. guangxiense). Polystichum hanmengqii is distinguishable from P. peishanii by having rounded pinna apices (vs. acuminate or acute pinna apices in the latter; Zhang & Barrington 2013). Polystichum hanmengqii is the second cave fern of Polystichum described from Guangdong Province, China; the first was P. hastipinnum G. D. Tang & Li Bing Zhang in Tang et al. (2017: 66).	en	Han, Meng-Qi, Liu, Yan, Zhang, Li-Bing (2018): Eight new species of Polystichum (subg. Haplopolystichum; Dryopteridaceae) from limestone caves in Guangdong and Yunnan, China, with reference to species diversity in the karst terrains at high elevations in subtropical areas. Phytotaxa 365 (2): 145-168, DOI: 10.11646/phytotaxa.365.2.3, URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.365.2.3
C52E87A73240FFCDFF68CCDFFDB08D88.taxon	materials_examined	Type: — CHINA. Yunnan: Malipo County, Xiajinchang Town, Xinyan Village, inside a limestone cave, alt. 2050 m, 23 ° 07 ′ 04 ″ N, 104 ° 47 ′ 30 ″ E, 31 March 2017, Mengqi Han HMQ 1356 (holotype IBK!, isotypes CDBI!, IBK!, MO!).	en	Han, Meng-Qi, Liu, Yan, Zhang, Li-Bing (2018): Eight new species of Polystichum (subg. Haplopolystichum; Dryopteridaceae) from limestone caves in Guangdong and Yunnan, China, with reference to species diversity in the karst terrains at high elevations in subtropical areas. Phytotaxa 365 (2): 145-168, DOI: 10.11646/phytotaxa.365.2.3, URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.365.2.3
C52E87A73240FFCDFF68CCDFFDB08D88.taxon	diagnosis	Diagnosis: — Polystichum malipoense is unique in P. sect. Haplopolystichum known so far by having the broadest pinnae being oblique-ovate.	en	Han, Meng-Qi, Liu, Yan, Zhang, Li-Bing (2018): Eight new species of Polystichum (subg. Haplopolystichum; Dryopteridaceae) from limestone caves in Guangdong and Yunnan, China, with reference to species diversity in the karst terrains at high elevations in subtropical areas. Phytotaxa 365 (2): 145-168, DOI: 10.11646/phytotaxa.365.2.3, URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.365.2.3
C52E87A73240FFCDFF68CCDFFDB08D88.taxon	description	Plants perennial, evergreen, 30 – 36 cm tall. Rhizomes unseen; roots dull brown when dried, up to 9 cm long, ca. 0.4 mm diam. Leaves in tufts, 5 – 14 per rhizomes; petioles 15 – 18 cm long, 1.5 – 2.2 mm diam., basal portions covered with scales, scales ovate-lanceolate, 2.2 – 2.8 × 1 – 1.5 mm, papery, dull brown, edges nearly entire, apex acuminate; distal petiole scales ovate, ovate-lanceolate, 0.3 – 3.6 × 0.18 – 1.8 mm, membranous, margins with irregular teeth, apex caudate. Laminae lanceolate, 1 - pinnate, 16 – 19 × 3.3 – 4 cm, apex acuminate; rachises ca. 1.5 mm diam., scales ovate or ovate-lanceolate, dull brown, 1.8 – 3.3 mm long including tip, 0.5 – 1.8 mm wide at base, margins with irregular teeth, apex long-caudate. Pinnae 16 – 19 pairs, oblique-deltoid, 2 – 2.3 × 1.1 – 1.3 cm, basalmost pair slightly smaller, basalmost two pairs 1.3 – 1.8 cm apart, middle pairs 1 – 1.1 cm apart, all pinnae subcoriaceous, alternate, overlapping rachis, basiscopic margins “ S ” - shaped, entire, acroscopic margins serrate, basiscopic margins forming a 60 – 80 (– 100) ° angle with rachis, apex acute, base cuneate and asymmetric, acroscopic sides much broader, pinna petiolues ca. 0.7 mm long, auricles rounded at apex, abaxially with microscales, microscales broad-type, subulate, lanceolate or ovate-lanceolate, light brown, 0.36 – 0.65 mm long, 0.1 – 0.18 mm wide at base, margins with irregular teeth; adaxially glabrous; veins visible abaxially but somewhat obscure adaxially, lateral veins free, single or forked. All pinnae fertile; sori terminal on lateral veins of fertile pinnae, 5 – 13 in 1 – 2 rows on acroscopic side, 5 – 6 in 1 – 2 rows on distal basiscopic side, 1.4 – 1.8 mm diam., closer to pinna margins than to costa (centers of sori 1.4 – 2.6 mm from pinna margins, 1.4 – 5.4 mm from costa), centers 1.4 – 2.9 mm apart from one another; indusia rounded, dull brown, ca. 1 mm diam., margins erose.	en	Han, Meng-Qi, Liu, Yan, Zhang, Li-Bing (2018): Eight new species of Polystichum (subg. Haplopolystichum; Dryopteridaceae) from limestone caves in Guangdong and Yunnan, China, with reference to species diversity in the karst terrains at high elevations in subtropical areas. Phytotaxa 365 (2): 145-168, DOI: 10.11646/phytotaxa.365.2.3, URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.365.2.3
C52E87A73240FFCDFF68CCDFFDB08D88.taxon	distribution	Geographical distribution: — Polystichum malipoense is only known from southeastern Yunnan, Southwest China, bordering northern Vietnam. It is likely endemic to the cave in Malipo County.	en	Han, Meng-Qi, Liu, Yan, Zhang, Li-Bing (2018): Eight new species of Polystichum (subg. Haplopolystichum; Dryopteridaceae) from limestone caves in Guangdong and Yunnan, China, with reference to species diversity in the karst terrains at high elevations in subtropical areas. Phytotaxa 365 (2): 145-168, DOI: 10.11646/phytotaxa.365.2.3, URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.365.2.3
C52E87A73240FFCDFF68CCDFFDB08D88.taxon	biology_ecology	Ecology: — Polystichum malipoense grows inside a limestone cave at an elevation of 2050 m with humid and shady conditions.	en	Han, Meng-Qi, Liu, Yan, Zhang, Li-Bing (2018): Eight new species of Polystichum (subg. Haplopolystichum; Dryopteridaceae) from limestone caves in Guangdong and Yunnan, China, with reference to species diversity in the karst terrains at high elevations in subtropical areas. Phytotaxa 365 (2): 145-168, DOI: 10.11646/phytotaxa.365.2.3, URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.365.2.3
C52E87A73240FFCDFF68CCDFFDB08D88.taxon	conservation	IUCN Red List category: — CR-Critically Endangered: Only one population with about 50 plants was seen in the field.	en	Han, Meng-Qi, Liu, Yan, Zhang, Li-Bing (2018): Eight new species of Polystichum (subg. Haplopolystichum; Dryopteridaceae) from limestone caves in Guangdong and Yunnan, China, with reference to species diversity in the karst terrains at high elevations in subtropical areas. Phytotaxa 365 (2): 145-168, DOI: 10.11646/phytotaxa.365.2.3, URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.365.2.3
C52E87A73240FFCDFF68CCDFFDB08D88.taxon	etymology	Etymology: — The species epithet is based on the Chinese pinyin, malipo, the county name in southeastern Yunnan, and the Latin suffix- ense, of origin, referring to the type locality and the current known distribution of the species in Malipo County, Yunnan.	en	Han, Meng-Qi, Liu, Yan, Zhang, Li-Bing (2018): Eight new species of Polystichum (subg. Haplopolystichum; Dryopteridaceae) from limestone caves in Guangdong and Yunnan, China, with reference to species diversity in the karst terrains at high elevations in subtropical areas. Phytotaxa 365 (2): 145-168, DOI: 10.11646/phytotaxa.365.2.3, URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.365.2.3
C52E87A73240FFCDFF68CCDFFDB08D88.taxon	vernacular_names	Vernacular name: — ṀffiDZHẄ (ma li po er jue).	en	Han, Meng-Qi, Liu, Yan, Zhang, Li-Bing (2018): Eight new species of Polystichum (subg. Haplopolystichum; Dryopteridaceae) from limestone caves in Guangdong and Yunnan, China, with reference to species diversity in the karst terrains at high elevations in subtropical areas. Phytotaxa 365 (2): 145-168, DOI: 10.11646/phytotaxa.365.2.3, URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.365.2.3
C52E87A73240FFCDFF68CCDFFDB08D88.taxon	discussion	Notes: — Polystichum malipoense is unique in P. sect. Haplopolystichum considering the width of its pinnae and its 1 – 2 rows of sori on each side of costae. Its pinnae are oblique-ovate which are unusual in the section too. Its petioles are approximately as long as its laminae.	en	Han, Meng-Qi, Liu, Yan, Zhang, Li-Bing (2018): Eight new species of Polystichum (subg. Haplopolystichum; Dryopteridaceae) from limestone caves in Guangdong and Yunnan, China, with reference to species diversity in the karst terrains at high elevations in subtropical areas. Phytotaxa 365 (2): 145-168, DOI: 10.11646/phytotaxa.365.2.3, URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.365.2.3
C52E87A73242FFCBFF68CFC7FE07890F.taxon	materials_examined	Type: — CHINA. Yunnan: Malipo County, Xiajinchang Xiang, Xinyan Village, inside a limestone cave, alt. 2050 m, 23 ° 07 ′ 04 ″ N, 104 ° 47 ′ 30 ″ E, 31 March 2017, Mengqi Han HMQ 1362 (holotype IBK!)	en	Han, Meng-Qi, Liu, Yan, Zhang, Li-Bing (2018): Eight new species of Polystichum (subg. Haplopolystichum; Dryopteridaceae) from limestone caves in Guangdong and Yunnan, China, with reference to species diversity in the karst terrains at high elevations in subtropical areas. Phytotaxa 365 (2): 145-168, DOI: 10.11646/phytotaxa.365.2.3, URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.365.2.3
C52E87A73242FFCBFF68CFC7FE07890F.taxon	diagnosis	Diagnosis: — Polystichum oblongipinnarum is most similar to P. oblongum Ching ex W. M. Chu & Z. R. He in Kung et al. (2001: 228) in having habit small (lamina <12 cm), lamina thinly papery, and pinnae not aristate-spinulose on margin and rounded at apex, but the former has a ratio of lamina length to petiole length ca. 1: 1, petiole scales not fimbriate on margin, and acroscopic pinna margins forming angles of ca. 90 ° with rachis, while the latter has a ratio of lamina length to petiole length up to 6: 1, petiole scales fimbriate on margin, and acroscopic pinna margins often forming angles of ca. 120 ° or greater with rachis.	en	Han, Meng-Qi, Liu, Yan, Zhang, Li-Bing (2018): Eight new species of Polystichum (subg. Haplopolystichum; Dryopteridaceae) from limestone caves in Guangdong and Yunnan, China, with reference to species diversity in the karst terrains at high elevations in subtropical areas. Phytotaxa 365 (2): 145-168, DOI: 10.11646/phytotaxa.365.2.3, URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.365.2.3
C52E87A73242FFCBFF68CFC7FE07890F.taxon	description	Plants perennial, evergreen, 7 – 12.5 cm tall. Rhizomes ascending, ca. 1 cm long, 0.6 – 0.8 cm diam., with remnant bases of old petioles; roots dull brown when dried, up to 7 cm long, ca. 0.3 mm diam. Leaves in tufts; petioles 6 – 8 cm long, 2.2 – 3 mm diam., basal portions covered with scales, scales ovate-lanceolate, 1.4 – 3 × 0.4 – 0.7 mm, papery, dull brown, edges with short teeth, apex acuminate; distal petiole scales ovate-lanceolate, 0.9 – 1.3 × 0.25 – 0.5 mm, membranous, margins with irregular teeth, apex caudate. Laminae oblong-lanceolate, 1 - pinnate, 4 – 7 × 2 – 2.2 cm, apex acute; rachises ca. 0.6 mm diam., scales ovate-lanceolate, light brown, 0.25 – 1.7 mm long including tip, 0.2 – 0.45 cm wide at base, margins sparsely ciliate, apex caudate. Pinnae 7 – 9 pairs, oblong, 0.7 – 1 × 0.6 – 0.8 cm, basalmost 0 – 2 pairs slightly reduced toward lamina base, basalmost pairs ca. 3 / 4 as large as middle ones, basalmost two pairs 0.5 – 0.7 cm apart, middle pairs 0.5 – 0.6 cm apart, all pinnae papery, alternate, hardly overlapping rachis, basiscopic margins straight, entire, acroscopic margins shallowly crenulate, basiscopic margins forming a (60 –) 80 – 90 ° angle with rachis, apex rounded, base cuneate and asymmetric, acroscopic sides much broader, pinna petiolues ca. 0.5 mm long, auricles rounded at apex, abaxially with microscales, microscales narrow-type, lanceolate, light brown, 0.36 – 0.72 mm long, ca. 0.05 mm wide at base, margins entire; adaxially glabrous; veins visible abaxially but somewhat obscure adaxially, lateral veins free, single or forked. Lowest 0 – 5 pairs of pinnae sterile; sori terminal on lateral veins of fertile pinnae, 1 – 5 on acroscopic side of fertile pinnae, 0 – 2 on distal basiscopic side of fertile pinnae, ca. 1 mm diam., closer to pinna margins than to costa (centers of sori 1 – 1.3 mm from pinna margins, 1.4 – 3.6 mm from costa), centers 1.4 – 2.5 mm apart from one another; indusia rounded, light brown, ca. 1 mm diam., margins nearly entire.	en	Han, Meng-Qi, Liu, Yan, Zhang, Li-Bing (2018): Eight new species of Polystichum (subg. Haplopolystichum; Dryopteridaceae) from limestone caves in Guangdong and Yunnan, China, with reference to species diversity in the karst terrains at high elevations in subtropical areas. Phytotaxa 365 (2): 145-168, DOI: 10.11646/phytotaxa.365.2.3, URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.365.2.3
C52E87A73242FFCBFF68CFC7FE07890F.taxon	distribution	Geographical distribution: — Polystichum oblongipinnarum is only known from southeastern Yunnan, Southwest China, bordering northern Vietnam. It is likely endemic to the cave in Malipo County.	en	Han, Meng-Qi, Liu, Yan, Zhang, Li-Bing (2018): Eight new species of Polystichum (subg. Haplopolystichum; Dryopteridaceae) from limestone caves in Guangdong and Yunnan, China, with reference to species diversity in the karst terrains at high elevations in subtropical areas. Phytotaxa 365 (2): 145-168, DOI: 10.11646/phytotaxa.365.2.3, URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.365.2.3
C52E87A73242FFCBFF68CFC7FE07890F.taxon	biology_ecology	Ecology: — Polystichum oblongipinnarum grows inside a limestone cave at an elevation of 2050 m with humid and shady conditions.	en	Han, Meng-Qi, Liu, Yan, Zhang, Li-Bing (2018): Eight new species of Polystichum (subg. Haplopolystichum; Dryopteridaceae) from limestone caves in Guangdong and Yunnan, China, with reference to species diversity in the karst terrains at high elevations in subtropical areas. Phytotaxa 365 (2): 145-168, DOI: 10.11646/phytotaxa.365.2.3, URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.365.2.3
C52E87A73242FFCBFF68CFC7FE07890F.taxon	conservation	IUCN Red List category: — CR-Critically Endangered: Only one population with about 50 plants was seen in the field.	en	Han, Meng-Qi, Liu, Yan, Zhang, Li-Bing (2018): Eight new species of Polystichum (subg. Haplopolystichum; Dryopteridaceae) from limestone caves in Guangdong and Yunnan, China, with reference to species diversity in the karst terrains at high elevations in subtropical areas. Phytotaxa 365 (2): 145-168, DOI: 10.11646/phytotaxa.365.2.3, URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.365.2.3
C52E87A73242FFCBFF68CFC7FE07890F.taxon	etymology	Etymology: — The species epithet is based on the Latin prefix, oblongi-, oblong, and the Latin noun, pinna (genitive plural: pannarum), pinna, referring to the oblong pinnae of the new species.	en	Han, Meng-Qi, Liu, Yan, Zhang, Li-Bing (2018): Eight new species of Polystichum (subg. Haplopolystichum; Dryopteridaceae) from limestone caves in Guangdong and Yunnan, China, with reference to species diversity in the karst terrains at high elevations in subtropical areas. Phytotaxa 365 (2): 145-168, DOI: 10.11646/phytotaxa.365.2.3, URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.365.2.3
C52E87A73242FFCBFF68CFC7FE07890F.taxon	vernacular_names	Vernacular name: — AEOiNJH Ẅ (ju yuan yu er jue).	en	Han, Meng-Qi, Liu, Yan, Zhang, Li-Bing (2018): Eight new species of Polystichum (subg. Haplopolystichum; Dryopteridaceae) from limestone caves in Guangdong and Yunnan, China, with reference to species diversity in the karst terrains at high elevations in subtropical areas. Phytotaxa 365 (2): 145-168, DOI: 10.11646/phytotaxa.365.2.3, URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.365.2.3
C52E87A73242FFCBFF68CFC7FE07890F.taxon	discussion	Notes: — Polystichum malipoense and P. oblongipinnarum were discovered in the same cave. Polystichum oblongipinnarum is most similar to P. oblongum and these two species both occur in high elevations, although the latter is found at a much higher elevation (ca. 3000 m) and is the species in P. sect. Haplopolystichum growing at the highest elevation known so far.	en	Han, Meng-Qi, Liu, Yan, Zhang, Li-Bing (2018): Eight new species of Polystichum (subg. Haplopolystichum; Dryopteridaceae) from limestone caves in Guangdong and Yunnan, China, with reference to species diversity in the karst terrains at high elevations in subtropical areas. Phytotaxa 365 (2): 145-168, DOI: 10.11646/phytotaxa.365.2.3, URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.365.2.3
C52E87A73244FFD6FF68CB48FB3D8B5C.taxon	materials_examined	Type: — CHINA. Yunnan: Pingbian County, Xinxian Xiang, Shidong Village, the Stone Cave, alt. 1660 m, 23 ° 05 ′ 18 ″ N, 103 ° 33 ′ 26 ″ E, inside a limestone cave, 28 March 2017, Mengqi Han HMQ 1320 (holotype IBK!, isotype MO!).	en	Han, Meng-Qi, Liu, Yan, Zhang, Li-Bing (2018): Eight new species of Polystichum (subg. Haplopolystichum; Dryopteridaceae) from limestone caves in Guangdong and Yunnan, China, with reference to species diversity in the karst terrains at high elevations in subtropical areas. Phytotaxa 365 (2): 145-168, DOI: 10.11646/phytotaxa.365.2.3, URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.365.2.3
C52E87A73244FFD6FF68CB48FB3D8B5C.taxon	diagnosis	Diagnosis: — Polystichum pingbianense is most similar to P. oblongum in having habit small (lamina <12 cm), lamina thinly papery, and pinnae not aristate-spinulose on margin and rounded at apex, but the former has petiole scales irregularly toothed on margin, a ratio of lamina length to petiole length ca. 3: 1, lamina with up to 8 pairs of pinnae, and pinna margins shallowly toothed, while the latter has petiole scales fimbriate on margin, a ratio of lamina length to petiole length up to 6: 1, and pinna margins coarsely toothed.	en	Han, Meng-Qi, Liu, Yan, Zhang, Li-Bing (2018): Eight new species of Polystichum (subg. Haplopolystichum; Dryopteridaceae) from limestone caves in Guangdong and Yunnan, China, with reference to species diversity in the karst terrains at high elevations in subtropical areas. Phytotaxa 365 (2): 145-168, DOI: 10.11646/phytotaxa.365.2.3, URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.365.2.3
C52E87A73244FFD6FF68CB48FB3D8B5C.taxon	description	Plants perennial, evergreen, 3.2 – 5 cm tall. Rhizomes ascending, ca. 0.7 cm long, ca. 0.4 cm diam., with remnant bases of old petioles; roots dull brown when dried, up to 5 cm long, ca. 0.2 mm diam. Leaves in tufts, 5 – 12 per rhizome; petioles 0.5 – 1.6 cm long, ca. 0.4 mm diam., basal portions covered with scales, scales ovate-lanceolate, 2.9 – 4.3 × 0.9 – 1.5 mm, papery, light to dull brown, edges with irregular teeth, apex caudate; distal petiole scales similar but narrower and smaller, 1.4 – 2.9 × 0.4 – 0.8 mm, membranous, margins sparsely ciliate, apex caudate. Laminae oblanceolate, 1 - pinnate, 2.5 – 4.5 × 1 – 1.4 cm, apex rounded; rachises ca. 0.5 mm diam., scales subulate, lanceolate to ovate-lanceolate, light brown, 1.4 – 3.3 mm long including tip, 0.07 – 0.09 mm wide at base, margins sparsely ciliate, apex caudate. Pinnae 5 – 8 pairs, oblique-ovate, 0.4 – 0.65 × 0.3 – 0.45 cm, basalmost 0 – 2 pairs slightly smaller, basalmost pairs ca. 3 / 4 as large as or same as middle ones, basalmost two pairs 0.3 – 0.6 cm apart, middle pairs 0.4 – 0.5 cm apart, all pinnae papery, alternate, not overlapping rachis, basiscopic margins slightly curved, entire, acroscopic margins with obtuse teeth, basiscopic margins forming a (60 –) 70 – 80 (– 90) ° angle with rachis, apex rounded, base cuneate and asymmetric, acroscopic sides much broader, pinna petiolues 0.2 – 0.3 mm long, auricles rounded at apex, abaxially with microscales, microscales narrow-type, subulate or linear, light brown, 0.3 – 1.3 mm long, 0.06 – 0.08 mm wide at base; adaxially glabrous; veins visible abaxially but somewhat obscure adaxially, lateral veins free, single or forked. Lowest 1 – 2 pairs of pinnae sterile; sori terminal on lateral veins of fertile pinnae, 1 – 3 (– 4) on acroscopic side of fertile pinnae, none on distal basiscopic side of fertile pinnae, ca. 1.5 mm diam., closer to pinna margins than to costa (centers of sori 0.5 – 1 mm from pinna margins, 1 – 2 mm from costa), centers 0.9 – 1.1 mm apart from one another; indusia rounded, light brown, ca. 4 – 0.6 mm diam., margins lacerate. Spores rounded or slightly deltoid in polar view and elliptic in equatorial view; perispore sculpture reticulate with thin cristae.	en	Han, Meng-Qi, Liu, Yan, Zhang, Li-Bing (2018): Eight new species of Polystichum (subg. Haplopolystichum; Dryopteridaceae) from limestone caves in Guangdong and Yunnan, China, with reference to species diversity in the karst terrains at high elevations in subtropical areas. Phytotaxa 365 (2): 145-168, DOI: 10.11646/phytotaxa.365.2.3, URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.365.2.3
C52E87A73244FFD6FF68CB48FB3D8B5C.taxon	distribution	Geographical distribution: — Polystichum pingbianense is only known from southeastern Yunnan, Southwest China. It is likely that it occurs only in that Stone cave in Pingbian County.	en	Han, Meng-Qi, Liu, Yan, Zhang, Li-Bing (2018): Eight new species of Polystichum (subg. Haplopolystichum; Dryopteridaceae) from limestone caves in Guangdong and Yunnan, China, with reference to species diversity in the karst terrains at high elevations in subtropical areas. Phytotaxa 365 (2): 145-168, DOI: 10.11646/phytotaxa.365.2.3, URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.365.2.3
C52E87A73244FFD6FF68CB48FB3D8B5C.taxon	biology_ecology	Ecology: — Polystichum pingbianense grows inside a limestone cave at an elevation of 1660 m with humid and shady conditions.	en	Han, Meng-Qi, Liu, Yan, Zhang, Li-Bing (2018): Eight new species of Polystichum (subg. Haplopolystichum; Dryopteridaceae) from limestone caves in Guangdong and Yunnan, China, with reference to species diversity in the karst terrains at high elevations in subtropical areas. Phytotaxa 365 (2): 145-168, DOI: 10.11646/phytotaxa.365.2.3, URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.365.2.3
C52E87A73244FFD6FF68CB48FB3D8B5C.taxon	conservation	IUCN Red List category: — CR-Critically Endangered: Only one population with about 50 plants was seen in the field.	en	Han, Meng-Qi, Liu, Yan, Zhang, Li-Bing (2018): Eight new species of Polystichum (subg. Haplopolystichum; Dryopteridaceae) from limestone caves in Guangdong and Yunnan, China, with reference to species diversity in the karst terrains at high elevations in subtropical areas. Phytotaxa 365 (2): 145-168, DOI: 10.11646/phytotaxa.365.2.3, URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.365.2.3
C52E87A73244FFD6FF68CB48FB3D8B5C.taxon	etymology	Etymology: — The species epithet is based on the Chinese pinyin, pingbian, the county name in southern Yunnan, and the Latin suffix- ense, of origin, referring to the type locality the current known distribution of the species in Pingbian County, Yunnan.	en	Han, Meng-Qi, Liu, Yan, Zhang, Li-Bing (2018): Eight new species of Polystichum (subg. Haplopolystichum; Dryopteridaceae) from limestone caves in Guangdong and Yunnan, China, with reference to species diversity in the karst terrains at high elevations in subtropical areas. Phytotaxa 365 (2): 145-168, DOI: 10.11646/phytotaxa.365.2.3, URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.365.2.3
C52E87A73244FFD6FF68CB48FB3D8B5C.taxon	vernacular_names	Vernacular name: — DZAEH Ẅ (ping bian er jue).	en	Han, Meng-Qi, Liu, Yan, Zhang, Li-Bing (2018): Eight new species of Polystichum (subg. Haplopolystichum; Dryopteridaceae) from limestone caves in Guangdong and Yunnan, China, with reference to species diversity in the karst terrains at high elevations in subtropical areas. Phytotaxa 365 (2): 145-168, DOI: 10.11646/phytotaxa.365.2.3, URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.365.2.3
C52E87A73244FFD6FF68CB48FB3D8B5C.taxon	discussion	Notes: — Polystichum pingbianense is a small fern easily neglected in the field. In addition to the differences outlined above between P. pingbianense and P. oblongum, the former has petiole scales ovate-lanceolate, 0 – 2 (– 3) pairs of basal pinnae reduced toward lamina base, only 1 – 2 pairs of basal pinnae per lamina sterile, and each fertile pinna with up to 4 sori. In contrast, the latter has petiole scales lanceolate, up to 6 pairs of basal pinnae reduced toward lamina base, up to 7 pairs of basal pinnae per lamina sterile, and each fertile pinna often with 1 sorus only.	en	Han, Meng-Qi, Liu, Yan, Zhang, Li-Bing (2018): Eight new species of Polystichum (subg. Haplopolystichum; Dryopteridaceae) from limestone caves in Guangdong and Yunnan, China, with reference to species diversity in the karst terrains at high elevations in subtropical areas. Phytotaxa 365 (2): 145-168, DOI: 10.11646/phytotaxa.365.2.3, URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.365.2.3
C52E87A73259FFD5FF68C9F3FD428D88.taxon	materials_examined	Type: — CHINA. Yunnan: Malipo County, Xiajinchang Xiang, Xinyan Village, inside a limestone cave, alt. 2000 m, 23 ° 07 ′ 17 ″ N, 104 ° 47 ′ 35 ″ E, 31 March 2017, Mengqi Han HMQ 1350 (holotype IBK!; isotypes CDBI!, IBK!, MO!).	en	Han, Meng-Qi, Liu, Yan, Zhang, Li-Bing (2018): Eight new species of Polystichum (subg. Haplopolystichum; Dryopteridaceae) from limestone caves in Guangdong and Yunnan, China, with reference to species diversity in the karst terrains at high elevations in subtropical areas. Phytotaxa 365 (2): 145-168, DOI: 10.11646/phytotaxa.365.2.3, URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.365.2.3
C52E87A73259FFD5FF68C9F3FD428D88.taxon	diagnosis	Diagnosis: — Polystichum rectum is most similar to P. crassirachis Li Bing Zhang, M. Q. Han & Yan Liu in Han et al. (2016: 204) in having pinnae with acroscopic margins and distal basiscopic margins shallowly toothed, basiscopic margins forming a nearly right angle with rachis, and apex acute, but the former has pinnae often not overlapping rachis, nearly all pinnae fertile, and perispores with thick cristae, while the latter has pinnae often overlapping rachis, lowest 3 – 7 pairs of pinnae sterile, and perispores with thin cristae.	en	Han, Meng-Qi, Liu, Yan, Zhang, Li-Bing (2018): Eight new species of Polystichum (subg. Haplopolystichum; Dryopteridaceae) from limestone caves in Guangdong and Yunnan, China, with reference to species diversity in the karst terrains at high elevations in subtropical areas. Phytotaxa 365 (2): 145-168, DOI: 10.11646/phytotaxa.365.2.3, URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.365.2.3
C52E87A73259FFD5FF68C9F3FD428D88.taxon	description	Plants perennial, evergreen, (7 –) 11 – 21 cm tall. Rhizomes ascending, 1.5 – 3 cm long, ca. 1 cm diam., with remnant bases of old petioles; roots dull brown when dried, up to 25 cm long, ca. 0.3 mm diam. Leaves in tufts, 4 – 7 per rhizome; petioles 2.5 – 6.5 cm long, 0.7 – 0.9 mm diam., basal portions covered with scales, scales ovate or ovate-lanceolate, 1.8 – 4.54 × 1 – 1.5 mm, papery, light to dull brown, edges with irregular teeth, apex caudate; distal petiole scales ovate or ovate-lanceolate, 1 – 2.6 × 0.5 – 0.9 mm, membranous, margins with irregular teeth, apex caudate. Laminae oblanceolate, 1 - pinnate, 5 – 14.5 × 1.4 – 2 cm, apex rounded; rachises 0.6 – 0.8 mm diam., scales ovate or ovate-lanceolate, light brown, 1.4 – 2.6 mm long including tip, 0.5 – 0.9 mm wide at base, margins sparsely ciliate, apex caudate. Pinnae 14 – 29 pairs, deltoid-oblong, 0.6 – 1 × 0.3 – 0.4 cm, lowest 3 – 8 pairs reduced toward lamina base, basalmost pairs ca. 2 / 3 as large as middle ones, basalmost two pairs 0.4 – 0.6 cm apart, middle pairs 0.3 – 0.6 cm apart, all pinnae papery, alternate, not overlapping rachis, basiscopic margins straight, entire, acroscopic margins shallowly crenulate, basiscopic margins forming a (60 –) 70 – 90 ° angle with rachis, apex rounded, base cuneate and asymmetric, acroscopic sides much broader, pinna petiolues ca. 0.5 mm long, auricles acute at apex, abaxially with microscales, microscales broad-type, ovate to ovate-lanceolate, edges whitish brown, middles light brown, 0.2 – 1.5 mm long, 0.2 – 0.3 mm wide at base, margins with irregular teeth; adaxially glabrous; veins visible abaxially but somewhat obscure adaxially, lateral veins free, single or forked. Lowest 2 – 8 pairs of pinnae sterile; sori terminal on lateral veins of fertile pinnae, 1 – 9 on acroscopic side of fertile pinnae, 0 – 2 on distal basiscopic side of fertile pinnae, 0.9 – 1.5 mm diam., closer to pinna margins than to costa (centers of sori 1 – 1.5 mm from pinna margins, 1 – 2 mm from costa), centers 0.9 – 1.5 mm apart from one another; indusia rounded, light brown, 0.9 – 1.3 mm diam., margins entire or nearly so. Spores rounded or slightly deltoid in polar view and elliptic in equatorial view; perispore sculpture cristate.	en	Han, Meng-Qi, Liu, Yan, Zhang, Li-Bing (2018): Eight new species of Polystichum (subg. Haplopolystichum; Dryopteridaceae) from limestone caves in Guangdong and Yunnan, China, with reference to species diversity in the karst terrains at high elevations in subtropical areas. Phytotaxa 365 (2): 145-168, DOI: 10.11646/phytotaxa.365.2.3, URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.365.2.3
C52E87A73259FFD5FF68C9F3FD428D88.taxon	distribution	Geographical distribution: — Polystichum rectum is only known from southeastern Yunnan, Southwest China. It is likely that it is endemic to the cave in Malipo County.	en	Han, Meng-Qi, Liu, Yan, Zhang, Li-Bing (2018): Eight new species of Polystichum (subg. Haplopolystichum; Dryopteridaceae) from limestone caves in Guangdong and Yunnan, China, with reference to species diversity in the karst terrains at high elevations in subtropical areas. Phytotaxa 365 (2): 145-168, DOI: 10.11646/phytotaxa.365.2.3, URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.365.2.3
C52E87A73259FFD5FF68C9F3FD428D88.taxon	biology_ecology	Ecology: — Polystichum rectum grows inside a limestone cave at an elevation of 2000 m with humid and shady conditions.	en	Han, Meng-Qi, Liu, Yan, Zhang, Li-Bing (2018): Eight new species of Polystichum (subg. Haplopolystichum; Dryopteridaceae) from limestone caves in Guangdong and Yunnan, China, with reference to species diversity in the karst terrains at high elevations in subtropical areas. Phytotaxa 365 (2): 145-168, DOI: 10.11646/phytotaxa.365.2.3, URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.365.2.3
C52E87A73259FFD5FF68C9F3FD428D88.taxon	conservation	IUCN Red List category: — CR-Critically Endangered: Only one population with about 50 plants was seen in the field.	en	Han, Meng-Qi, Liu, Yan, Zhang, Li-Bing (2018): Eight new species of Polystichum (subg. Haplopolystichum; Dryopteridaceae) from limestone caves in Guangdong and Yunnan, China, with reference to species diversity in the karst terrains at high elevations in subtropical areas. Phytotaxa 365 (2): 145-168, DOI: 10.11646/phytotaxa.365.2.3, URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.365.2.3
C52E87A73259FFD5FF68C9F3FD428D88.taxon	etymology	Etymology: — The species epithet is based on the Latin adjective, rectum, right, referring to the often nearly right angles of pinnae forming with rachis of the new species.	en	Han, Meng-Qi, Liu, Yan, Zhang, Li-Bing (2018): Eight new species of Polystichum (subg. Haplopolystichum; Dryopteridaceae) from limestone caves in Guangdong and Yunnan, China, with reference to species diversity in the karst terrains at high elevations in subtropical areas. Phytotaxa 365 (2): 145-168, DOI: 10.11646/phytotaxa.365.2.3, URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.365.2.3
C52E87A73259FFD5FF68C9F3FD428D88.taxon	vernacular_names	Vernacular name: — ĦmNJH Ẅ (zhi jiao yu er jue).	en	Han, Meng-Qi, Liu, Yan, Zhang, Li-Bing (2018): Eight new species of Polystichum (subg. Haplopolystichum; Dryopteridaceae) from limestone caves in Guangdong and Yunnan, China, with reference to species diversity in the karst terrains at high elevations in subtropical areas. Phytotaxa 365 (2): 145-168, DOI: 10.11646/phytotaxa.365.2.3, URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.365.2.3
C52E87A73259FFD5FF68C9F3FD428D88.taxon	discussion	Notes: — Polystichum rectum is unique in having ovate or ovate-lanceolate rachis scales and microscales (broad-type). Polystichum malipoense, P. oblongipinnarum, and P. rectum are discovered in two different caves on a same mountain in southeastern Yunnan. We strongly recommend that a nature reserve in this area bordering Vietnam be established to protect the habitats of these ferns.	en	Han, Meng-Qi, Liu, Yan, Zhang, Li-Bing (2018): Eight new species of Polystichum (subg. Haplopolystichum; Dryopteridaceae) from limestone caves in Guangdong and Yunnan, China, with reference to species diversity in the karst terrains at high elevations in subtropical areas. Phytotaxa 365 (2): 145-168, DOI: 10.11646/phytotaxa.365.2.3, URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.365.2.3
C52E87A7325AFFD3FF68CFC7FD2D8626.taxon	materials_examined	Type: — CHINA. Yunnan: Mengzi City, Mingjiu Town, Shidong Village, the Stone Cave, alt. 1880 m, 23 ° 29 ′ 21 ″ N, 103 ° 37 ′ 10 ″ E, in a limestone cave, 22 September 2016, Mengqi Han, Yang Dong & Tianfeng Lü HMQ 1160 (holotype IBK!, isotype MO!).	en	Han, Meng-Qi, Liu, Yan, Zhang, Li-Bing (2018): Eight new species of Polystichum (subg. Haplopolystichum; Dryopteridaceae) from limestone caves in Guangdong and Yunnan, China, with reference to species diversity in the karst terrains at high elevations in subtropical areas. Phytotaxa 365 (2): 145-168, DOI: 10.11646/phytotaxa.365.2.3, URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.365.2.3
C52E87A7325AFFD3FF68CFC7FD2D8626.taxon	diagnosis	Diagnosis: — Polystichum superum is most similar to P. cavernicola Li Bing Zhang & H. He in He & Zhang (2011: 122) in having lamina slightly reduced toward lamina base, pinnae oblong and with rounded apex, but the former has a ratio of pinna length to width greater (ca. 2.2: 1), pinnae slightly imbricate, basiscopic base of pinnae often forming a 60 – 80 - degree angle with rachis, and perispores with cristate sculpturing, while the latter has a lesser ratio of pinna length to width (0.9 – 1.2: 1), pinnae not imbricate, basiscopic base of pinnae often forming a 75 – 120 - degree angle with rachis, and perispores with verrucate sculpturing.	en	Han, Meng-Qi, Liu, Yan, Zhang, Li-Bing (2018): Eight new species of Polystichum (subg. Haplopolystichum; Dryopteridaceae) from limestone caves in Guangdong and Yunnan, China, with reference to species diversity in the karst terrains at high elevations in subtropical areas. Phytotaxa 365 (2): 145-168, DOI: 10.11646/phytotaxa.365.2.3, URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.365.2.3
C52E87A7325AFFD3FF68CFC7FD2D8626.taxon	description	Plants perennial, evergreen, 5.5 – 16 cm tall. Rhizomes ascending, ca. 1 cm long, 0.5 – 0.8 cm diam., with remnant bases of old petioles; roots dull brown when dried, up to 13 cm long, ca. 0.3 mm diam. Leaves in tufts, 5 – 12 per rhizome; petioles 1 – 4.5 cm long, 0.5 – 0.8 mm diam., basal portions covered with scales, scales ovate or ovate-lanceolate, 0.25 – 1.8 × 0.2 – 0.65 mm, papery, dull brown, edges with irregular teeth, apex acuminate; distal petiole scales ovate or ovate-lanceolate, 0.47 – 0.73 × 0.15 – 0.26 mm, membranous, margins irregularly short-ciliate, apex caudate. Laminae ellipticoblanceolate, 1 - pinnate, 3.5 – 11.5 × 1.3 – 2.2 cm, apex acute to acuminate; rachises 0.4 – 0.6 mm diam., scales subulate, lanceolate or ovate-lanceolate, light to dull brown, 0.6 – 2.2 mm long including tip, 0.25 – 0.75 mm wide at base, margins sparsely ciliate, apex caudate. Pinnae 12 – 21 pairs, oblong, middle ones 0.8 – 1.3 × 0.3 – 0.5 cm, basal 3 – 6 pairs slightly reduced toward lamina base, basalmost pairs ca. 2 / 3 as large as middle ones, basalmost two pairs 0.3 – 0.7 cm apart, middle pairs 0.4 – 0.5 cm apart, all pinnae papery, alternate, not overlapping rachis, basiscopic margins straight, entire, acroscopic margins repand, basiscopic margins forming a 60 – 80 ° angle with rachis, apex rounded, base cuneate and asymmetric, acroscopic sides much broader, pinna petiolues 0.25 – 0.45 mm long, auricles acute at apex, abaxially with microscales, microscales narrow-type, lanceolate, light brown, 0.36 – 0.8 mm long, ca. 0.07 mm wide at base; adaxially glabrous; veins visible abaxially but somewhat obscure adaxially, lateral veins free, single or forked. Lowest 2 – 5 pairs of pinnae sterile; sori terminal on lateral veins of fertile pinnae, 1 – 5 on acroscopic side of fertile pinnae, 0 – 1 on distal basiscopic side of fertile pinnae, ca. 1 mm diam., closer to pinna margins than to costa (centers of sori 0.7 – 1.5 mm from pinna margins, 1.5 – 3 mm from costa), centers 1.5 – 2.2 mm apart from one another; indusia rounded, light brown, 0.9 – 1.2 mm diam., margins erose. Spores rounded in polar view and elliptic in equatorial view; perispore sculpture cristate with shallow cristae and granules.	en	Han, Meng-Qi, Liu, Yan, Zhang, Li-Bing (2018): Eight new species of Polystichum (subg. Haplopolystichum; Dryopteridaceae) from limestone caves in Guangdong and Yunnan, China, with reference to species diversity in the karst terrains at high elevations in subtropical areas. Phytotaxa 365 (2): 145-168, DOI: 10.11646/phytotaxa.365.2.3, URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.365.2.3
C52E87A7325AFFD3FF68CFC7FD2D8626.taxon	distribution	Geographical distribution: — Polystichum superum is only known from northeastern Yunnan, Southwest China. It is likely endemic to the Stone cave in Mengqi City.	en	Han, Meng-Qi, Liu, Yan, Zhang, Li-Bing (2018): Eight new species of Polystichum (subg. Haplopolystichum; Dryopteridaceae) from limestone caves in Guangdong and Yunnan, China, with reference to species diversity in the karst terrains at high elevations in subtropical areas. Phytotaxa 365 (2): 145-168, DOI: 10.11646/phytotaxa.365.2.3, URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.365.2.3
C52E87A7325AFFD3FF68CFC7FD2D8626.taxon	biology_ecology	Ecology: — Polystichum superum grows inside a limestone cave at an elevation of 1880 m with humid and shady conditions.	en	Han, Meng-Qi, Liu, Yan, Zhang, Li-Bing (2018): Eight new species of Polystichum (subg. Haplopolystichum; Dryopteridaceae) from limestone caves in Guangdong and Yunnan, China, with reference to species diversity in the karst terrains at high elevations in subtropical areas. Phytotaxa 365 (2): 145-168, DOI: 10.11646/phytotaxa.365.2.3, URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.365.2.3
C52E87A7325AFFD3FF68CFC7FD2D8626.taxon	conservation	IUCN Red List category: — CR-Critically Endangered: Only one population with about 80 plants was seen in the field.	en	Han, Meng-Qi, Liu, Yan, Zhang, Li-Bing (2018): Eight new species of Polystichum (subg. Haplopolystichum; Dryopteridaceae) from limestone caves in Guangdong and Yunnan, China, with reference to species diversity in the karst terrains at high elevations in subtropical areas. Phytotaxa 365 (2): 145-168, DOI: 10.11646/phytotaxa.365.2.3, URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.365.2.3
C52E87A7325AFFD3FF68CFC7FD2D8626.taxon	etymology	Etymology: — The species epithet is based on the Latin, superum, upper, referring to the sori often borne at the acroscopic side of each pinna.	en	Han, Meng-Qi, Liu, Yan, Zhang, Li-Bing (2018): Eight new species of Polystichum (subg. Haplopolystichum; Dryopteridaceae) from limestone caves in Guangdong and Yunnan, China, with reference to species diversity in the karst terrains at high elevations in subtropical areas. Phytotaxa 365 (2): 145-168, DOI: 10.11646/phytotaxa.365.2.3, URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.365.2.3
C52E87A7325AFFD3FF68CFC7FD2D8626.taxon	vernacular_names	Vernacular name: — ŀfflH Ẅ (shang guo er jue).	en	Han, Meng-Qi, Liu, Yan, Zhang, Li-Bing (2018): Eight new species of Polystichum (subg. Haplopolystichum; Dryopteridaceae) from limestone caves in Guangdong and Yunnan, China, with reference to species diversity in the karst terrains at high elevations in subtropical areas. Phytotaxa 365 (2): 145-168, DOI: 10.11646/phytotaxa.365.2.3, URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.365.2.3
C52E87A7325AFFD3FF68CFC7FD2D8626.taxon	discussion	Notes: — Polystichum superum and P. deltatum (see above) were discovered from the same cave with the former growing at the entrance and the latter deeper inside.	en	Han, Meng-Qi, Liu, Yan, Zhang, Li-Bing (2018): Eight new species of Polystichum (subg. Haplopolystichum; Dryopteridaceae) from limestone caves in Guangdong and Yunnan, China, with reference to species diversity in the karst terrains at high elevations in subtropical areas. Phytotaxa 365 (2): 145-168, DOI: 10.11646/phytotaxa.365.2.3, URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.11646/phytotaxa.365.2.3
