Pteridophytes

Pteridophytes, including both ferns and their relatives known as fern allies, are important plants in woodland ecosystems. Fern allies, such as horsetails, clubmosses, and whisk ferns, share similar reproductive traits with ferns but differ in their structure. These plants, along with true ferns, thrive in the shaded, moist conditions of forest floors, where they help prevent soil erosion, contribute to nutrient cycling, and provide habitat for various wildlife. With their unique forms and spore-producing capabilities, fern allies and ferns enhance the biodiversity of forests while adding lush greenery and texture to the landscape.