An important part of my research in recent years is the different ecology between terrestrial and epiphytic ferns species. Terrestrial ferns are the species which have the root system anchored to the ground whereas the epiphytic are those species which live on top of trees. They are not parasitic but simply utilize the space of tree trunks or branches. In the study we assess the difference of accumulation of major nutrients such as Nitrogen, Phosphorus, Potassium and Magnesium. They are important in the life cycle of plants. We reported that terrestrial species have higher concentration of Nitrogen, whereas epiphytic species have higher concentration of Phosphorus, Potassium and Magnesium.

A possible explanation of this difference is what is called the ‘luxury consumption’ when plants accumulate extra nutrients in their tissue to cope for prolonged periods of stress. Epiphytic species are often under stress due to the lack of rain, strong wind etc. Therefore, the extra accumulation of nutrients in the leaves is an evolutionary response to the extreme condition where they live.