Ologies with Alie Ward Pteridology (FERNS) with Fay-Wei Li
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Dec 3, 2025 Join pteridologist Fay-Wei Li, an associate professor and author of 'Ferns: Lessons in Survival from Earth’s Most Adaptable Plants,' as he unpacks the fascinating world of ferns. Discover the surprising resilience of resurrection ferns and the peculiarities of fern reproduction, including a connection to Lady Gaga. Learn about edible fiddleheads, endangered species, and the mathematical patterns ferns exhibit. Fay-Wei also shares tips on caring for house ferns and touches on the vibrant community of fern enthusiasts.
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Two-Generation Life Cycle
- Ferns alternate between an independent haploid gametophyte and a diploid sporophyte, with sex happening in the tiny gametophyte stage.
- This two-generation life cycle uniquely defines ferns and enables long-distance colonization via spores.
Childhood In Taiwan Sparked The Passion
- Fay-Wei Li grew up in Taiwan surrounded by rich fern diversity and learned identification from field guides his parents gave him.
- That early exposure sparked his lifelong fascination and scientific career with ferns.
Naming A Genus 'Gaga'
- While examining herbarium specimens, Fay-Wei Li and his advisor discovered a new genus and named it Gaga in honor of Lady Gaga.
- The naming celebrated the artist's advocacy for equality and the genus's quirky reproductive traits.
