Filicologist

/ˌfɪlɪˈkɑːlədʒɪst/ noun

Definition

A scientist or expert who studies ferns and their characteristics, classification, and distribution.

Etymology

From Latin 'filix' (fern) combined with Greek 'logia' meaning study or science, plus '-ist' for a person. The term formalized in the 19th century as fern study became a recognized botanical specialty.

Kelly Says

Filicologists discovered that ferns have an alien-like life cycle with a hidden generation—they reproduce via spores that grow into tiny green plants before making the fern we see, unlike any other common plant!

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