It is the gametophyte stage which produces male sperm and female eggs and once united, the sporophyte develops. A lthough mature ferns consist of roots, stems and leaves, just as other plants do, different terms are often used to describe the various fern parts. Fern leaves are called fronds and the stem is called a stipe. One fairly distinctive feature among ferns is the manner in which the newly emerging foliage unfolds in a scroll-like fashion. The newly developed fern leaves are called fiddleheads.
Rhizomes are another distinguishing characteristic common among many ferns.
These stuctures not only provide a vital link between the roots and the frond, but also determines the plant's habit. Rhizomes may be erect, holding the frond in a close, vase-like cluster, or it may creep horizontally, with fronds arising in an irregularly. Spangles Azolla sp. These aquatic ferns display hundreds of fine translucent hairs that hang down in the water below them, absorbing nutrients for the plant just as true roots. Floating ferns in their natural setting provide cover for fish and other animals, and some are food to certain types of fish.