Common Names: spreading woodfern
Researchers analyzed 23 fern species from Pacific temperate regions to investigate if they were sources of valuable fatty acids. They found that ferns contain long chain polyunsaturated fatty acids, including arachidonic and eicosapentaenoic acids. The fatty acid profiles were unrelated to fern taxonomy but were affected by spore presence. The absolute content of arachidonic acid was relatively constant for a species in different seasons, while eicosapentaenoic acid was a minor fatty acid that accumulates during the vegetation period. The study also reported for the first time the presence of sciadonic and juniperonic acids in ferns. The findings suggest that ferns from Pacific temperate regions could be a potential source of valuable fatty acids with potential health benefits.