Centres of origin

[Jim Croft]

>So if I try to explain the currently pantropical
>distribution of, say, Nephrolepis multiflora to the best of my ability and
>on basis of the currently accepted knowledge, I am participating in a
>metaphysical research program?

Absolutely!

*anything* to do with taxon boundaries, species concepts and identification
in Nephrolepis is both metaphysical and mephistophelian ...

'Tis the Devil's genus... repent now!   :)

jim

~ Jim Croft ~ jrc at anbg.gov.au ~ 02-62465500 ~ www.anbg.gov.au/jrc/ ~