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The Schizeales is an order of ferns (Class Pteridopsida). The ferns in this order were once all lumped into the Family Schizeaceae in the old Order Filicales. However, these ferns differ markedly, although demonstrably related, and so three groups have now been elevated to family status:
- The Family Schizeaceae are generally small ferns with forking fronds and a distinctive, somewhat non-fern-like, appearance.
- The Family Anemiaceae look very fern-like but bear the spore on two completely modified lower pinnae.
- The Family Lygodiaceae, or Climbing Ferns, look very ferny but are highly distinctive in their growth habit: the rachis of the frond is long and flexible, with indeterminate growth, so that the fronds form climbing or trailing vines.
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