Description: Rhizome ± erect, bearing broad, thin scales.
Fronds tufted, erect, 1-pinnate, the pinnae lobed; lower pinnae gradually or abruptly reduced in size; lower surface of lamina usually glabrous; basal veins of the segments anastomosing.
Sori with or without indusium, if present indusium glabrous.
Distribution and occurrence: World: c. 80 species, Africa to Asia & Pacific. Australia: 3 species, Qld, N.S.W., Vic., Tas.
Text by Peter G. Wilson
Taxon concept:
| | Key to the species | |
| 1 | Basal pinnae abruptly reduced in size, the lowest 10 mm long or smaller | Pneumatopteris sogerensis |
| Basal pinnae gradually reduced in size, the lowermost at least 10 mm long | Pneumatopteris pennigera |
|
