Lycophytes and ferns of the Parque Estadual Monte Alegre (PEMA), Pará State, Brazil

ABSTRACT The Cerrado is an important phytogeographic Brazilian domain that covers a considerable percentage of the national territory. Although there are few studies highlighting the importance of ferns and lycophytes in the Cerrado, it is estimated that 241 to 248 species occur in this phytogeographic domain. Therefore, the objective of this study was to perform a survey of the Pteridophytes of a Cerrado area, located in the State of Pará and to present an identification key for the species. We used the walking methodology of sampling in areas with terra firme forest on slopes, in rocky outcrops, and at the entrance of caves. We obtained two lycophytes and 18 ferns species, belonging to nine families, being Pteridaceae, Anemiaceae, and Polypodiaceae the most representative. This result was similar to previous studies carried out in this domain. Two species with no herbarium records in the northern region were found: Anemia elegans (Gardner) C. Presl, and Cheilanthes eriophora (Fée) Mett. An identification key for the species using reproductive and vegetative characters was elaborated. Floristic studies including Pteridophytes are important because they contribute with the knowledge about the biology and distribution of this group of plants in the Cerrado, as well as in the Pará flora.